This paper presents the development, testing, and initial characterization of a 135W 3-cm diameter DC-discharge Gridded Ion Thruster with a ring-cusp magnetic geometry utilizing Argon as propellant, conducted by undergraduate students. The goal of this work is to reduce the barrier of entry into Electric Propulsion research and to encourage more undergraduate involvement in EP projects. The paper provides details of the design and construction of the ion thruster's key components, including the propellant feed system, discharge chamber, magnetic geometry, and ion optics, as well as information about essential testing infrastructure, such as a vacuum chamber and power systems, and a detailed electrical circuitry for ion thruster operation. Results from initial successful ignition tests are presented, along with discussions of operation parameters, grid arcing issues, and post-run observations. Preliminary performance metrics for the ion thruster are outlined, as a baseline for future improvements.
Development of an Undergraduate DC-Discharge Ring-Cusp Miniature Gridded Ion Thruster
2024-03-02
3427455 byte
Conference paper
Electronic Resource
English
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