Abstract
The research challenges for electric propulsion technologies are examined in the context of s-curve development cycles. It is shown that the need for research is driven both by the application as well as relative maturity of the technology. For flight qualified systems such as moderately-powered Hall thrusters and gridded ion thrusters, there are open questions related to testing fidelity and predictive modeling. For less developed technologies like large-scale electrospray arrays and pulsed inductive thrusters, the challenges include scalability and realizing theoretical performance. Strategies are discussed to address the challenges of both mature and developed technologies. With the aid of targeted numerical and experimental facility effects studies, the application of data-driven analyses, and the development of advanced power systems, many of these hurdles can be overcome in the near future.
Highlights
The use of electric propulsion (EP) for space applications is currently undergoing a rapid expansion
Most mature EP thrusters are those in the moderate power range, 1–20 kW, as this has been the primary power level researched in the past several decades
We reviewed the major acceleration schemes employed in electric propulsion, the nature of EP development cycles, open questions related to EP technologies, and potential future strategies to address technical hurdles
Summary
The use of electric propulsion (EP) for space applications is currently undergoing a rapid expansion. There are hundreds of operational spacecraft employing EP technologies with industry projections showing that nearly half of all commercial launches in the decade will have a form of electric propulsion. In light of their widespread use, the thruster types that have fueled this expansion—moderately-powered (1–20 kW) Hall effect, electrothermal, and ion thrusters—arguably have achieved “mature” operational status. The goal of this article is to outline possible future directions of the field of electric propulsion by discussing the challenges faced by modern technologies. We begin with a brief overview of the concept of the “s-curve” to represent technology development cycles and to illustrate the different types of challenges the field currently faces. We conclude by summarizing the common challenges for EP devices and reviewing strategies for overcoming these issues and quickening the pace of development for more immature technologies
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