JB=Beam ion (and neutralizer electron current) JE=cathode emitted current Jc=ion current to cathode- potential surfaces JD=current through disch. power supply
These notes aim at providing order-of-magnitude results and at illuminating the mechanisms involved. Numerical precision will be sacrificed in the interest of physical clarity. We look first at the arc in a cooled constrictor, with no flow, expand the analysis
1 Introduction Electrostatic thrusters (“ion engines”) are the best developed type of electric propulsion device, dating in conception to the ‘50’s,(1) and having been demonstrated in space in 1964 on a suborbital flight of the SERT I spacecraft(2). The early history
Ionization and Conduction in a High-pressure Plasma A normal gas at T <3000K is a good electrical insulator, because there are almost no ∼ free electrons in it. For pressure
Electrothermal Augmentation Concept Geostationary satellites are most of the time exposed to the sun, but they still are subject to eclipse periods around the two vernal points (March 21, September 21);
Systems Considerations (Valving, tanks, etc) Characteristics of some monopropellants (Reprinted from H. Koelle, Handbook of Astronautical Engineering, McGraw-Hill, 1961.) Flame Chemical Density temp
Definitions What is Systems Engineering? the ensemble of coordinated analyses, simulations, and processes which lead to a technical product which best meets the needs of an identified customer What does it mean to manage systems engineering?
