An experimental investigation under complete computer control of the characteristics of particles and fields emanating from mercury bombardment ion thrusters (J-series, 30 cm diameter), operating independently and simultaneously, is discussed. Results show that the flux rate of sputtered metal atoms leaving a single thruster has been determined and the data is in agreement with previous test results. The flux rate and energies of ions leaving single and two-thruster configurations have been established for a variety of beam current levels and combinations involving the two thrusters, and the data are sufficient to establish upper bounds. Floating potential measurements made in the near vicinity of the thrusters indicate that the fields are weak, plus or minus a few volts. The tests may be significant for the Solar Electric Propulsion System (SEPS) planners.


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    Title :

    Particle and field measurements on two J-series 30-centimeter thrusters


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    International Electric Propulsion Conference ; 1981 ; Las Vegas, NV, US


    Publication date :

    1981-04-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English