Abstract
An overview is given on a numerical simulation program for applied field magnetoplasmadynamic (AF-MPD) thrusters, which is currently under development at the Institute of Space Systems (IRS). The program allows the simulation of argon plasma flows in thermal and chemical non-equilibrium. The code is based on an axisymmetric finite volume method on unstructured, adaptive meshes. An externally applied magnetic field can be taken into account employing the vector potential formulation. Azimuthal velocity and magnetic field are handled by a quasi three-dimensional approach with vanishing azimuthal derivatives. Additionally, a laboratory AF-MPD thruster for the power range of 10-20 kW has been built up at IRS. The goal of the experimental investigations is the characterization of the operation and performance parameters of the thruster.
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