The results of the first life test of a high power ring-cusp ion thruster are presented. A 30-cm laboratory model thruster was operated steady-state at a nominal beam power of 5 kW on xenon propellant for approximately 900 hours. This test was conducted to identify life-timing erosion modifications, and to demonstrate operation using simplified power processing. The results from this test are described including the conclusions derived from extensive post-test analyses of the thruster. Modifications to the thruster and ground support equipment, which were incorporated to solve problems identified by the lifetest, are also described.
A 5-kW xenon ion thruster lifetest
International Electric Propulsion Conference ; 1990 ; Orlando, FL, United States
1990-01-01
Conference paper
No indication
English
5kW xenon ion thruster lifetest
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