In this final chapter, plasma thrusters based on expansion from low-pressure high-density electromagnetically coupled and wave-excited plasma sources, including a radiofrequency (RF) helicon source, are considered. Associated with these electrodeless and gridless thrusters are plasma-focussing magnetic nozzles and magnetic mirrors, which are also briefly discussed. Developments of plasma thrusters such as magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters, self-induced and applied field MPD thrusters, air-breathing electric thrusters, pulsed plasma thrusters and air-breathing PPTs for future space travel are discussed in some detail. This is followed by a detailed discussion of radiofrequency-excited plasma thrusters such as those excited by helicon waves, including the physics of helicon waves, and applications resulting in several design examples of the helicon wave–driven thruster. The chapter is concluded by summarizing recent developments of novel thrusters such as the Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR) and inertial electrostatic confinement thruster and by providing a summary of helicon wave–excited plasma thrusters.
Space Vehicle Electro-dynamic Propulsion
Space Vehicle Maneuvering, Propulsion, Dynamics and Control ; Chapter : 12 ; 483-534
2024-09-28
52 pages
Article/Chapter (Book)
Electronic Resource
English
Electro-dynamic thrusters , Magnetic nozzles , Magnetic mirrors , Electrodeless systems , Gridless systems , Magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters , Pulsed plasma thruster , Air-breathing PPTs , RF plasma thrusters , Helicon waves , Helicon plasma thrusters , VASIMR , Inertial electrostatic confinement Engineering , Aerospace Technology and Astronautics , Astronomy, Astrophysics and Cosmology , Control and Systems Theory , Control, Robotics, Mechatronics , Complexity , Mechanical Engineering
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