Investigating a two-stage electric space propulsion system: Simulation of plasma dynamics. (July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Christou, Alex; Jugroot, Manish
• Is Part Of: Vacuum. Volume 141(2017)
• Page Start: 22
• Page End: 31
• Publication Date: 2017-07
• Subjects: Space propulsion -- Ion thruster -- Hall thruster -- Plasma simulation -- Ion beam; Vacuum -- Periodicals; 621.55
• DOI: 10.1016/j.vacuum.2017.03.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0042-207X

Abstract

Abstract: Electric propulsion presents an excellent alternative to conventional chemical counterparts as higher exhaust velocities from a plasma-based thruster allow for more efficient mass utilization and expanded space mission capabilities. Understanding the detailed time and space dependant physical phenomena within the main thruster could potentially enhance the capabilities of the electric thruster. Hence, in the present work a two-stage Hall thruster is investigated and the potential feasibility of coupling the two stages to produce the ion-beam is evaluated. The ionization and acceleration events are investigated via multiphysics simulations. The key trends ranging from the discharge inception, amplification and drift to formation of the ion beam are discussed and characterized. Highlights: Insights into design of multi-stage electric propulsion. Simulation of plasma evolution within a two-stage electric propulsion system. Exploring separation of primary ionization and acceleration processes. Key plasma features and behaviors within thruster identified.