Abstract
Plasma sources such as a helicon discharge, which require no exposed electrons for plasma generation, may allow the use of propellants not currently possible in electric propulsion systems. In particular, the sensitivity of hollow cathode insert materials to contamination might be avoided and allow the use of new propellants in ion or Hall thrusters. Hollow cathode lifetime limits for inert gas propellants might also be extended. A small helicon source has been constructed and is undergoing testing at NASA Glenn Research Center. The source is a 1.2 cm diameter, 10 cm long quartz tube, with a 5 cm copper strap helicon antenna wrapped around the tube. Gas is fed through the back of the tube. A magnetic coil capable of generating an axial applied field strength up to 0.125 T surrounds the quartz tube. Presently, up to 300 W of 13.56 MHz rf power can be applied to the antenna to create a discharge in the tube.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
