Optimization of Electric Thrust Based on Pulse Arc Plasma Using Pulsed Magnetic Field

Abstract

Based on the results of a numerical simulation, a possibility in principle is shown to achieve an effective magneto-induction correction of high-gradient plasma expansion from a localized arc source and a respective severalfold increase in the thrust pulse with a steepness of the induction rise in the accelerator on the order of 104 T/s. In these conditions, a pulse-periodic mode of the device operation is required with a delay of the current pulse front in the magnetic field source relative to the ignition voltage pulse in the plasma source, which is determined by the expansion velocity of the plasma cloud within the device.