Pulsed Plasma Propulsion System

Key Points

• To develop and evaluate a pulsed RF-electric plasma propulsion system with precise timing and thrust capabilities.
• Designed a pulsed RF-electric propulsion system operating at ~220 Hz.
• Utilized magnetically collimated argon plasma for thrust generation.
• Implemented phase-synchronized electric acceleration for improved performance.
• Achieved millinewton-range thrust from the propulsion system.
• Demonstrated consistent phase-locked operation at ~220 Hz.

Abstract