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A theoretical analysis of vacuum arc thruster performanceIn vacuum arc discharges the current is conducted through vapor evaporated from the cathode surface. In these devices very dense, highly ionized plasmas can be created from any metallic or conducting solid used as the cathode. This paper describes theoretical models of performance for several thruster configurations which use vacuum arc plasma sources. This analysis suggests that thrusters using vacuum arc sources can be operated efficiently with a range of propellant options that gives great flexibility in specific impulse. In addition, the efficiency of plasma production in these devices appears to be largely independent of scale because the metal vapor is ionized within a few microns of the cathode electron emission sites, so this approach is well-suited for micropropulsion.
Document ID
20060044125
Acquisition Source
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Document Type
Conference Paper
External Source(s)
Authors
Polk, James E.
Sekerak, Mike
Ziemer, John K.
Schein, Jochen
Qi, Niansheng
Binder, Robert
Anders, Andre
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
October 15, 2001
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Meeting Information
Meeting: 27th International Electric Propulsion Conference
Location: Pasadena, CA
Country: United States
Start Date: October 15, 2001
End Date: October 19, 2001
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
thruster
performances

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