Electric Propulsion
Electric (plasma) propulsion devices have been used for applications such as station-keeping and orbit transfer, in place of chemical rockets, because they provide a higher specific impulse. Detailed studies are needed for improvement in performance and for assessment of spacecraft integration. Primarily, empirical experience has been the basis for design of these devices. Numerical methods are being developed that offer the possibility for optimization studies on the computer.
In this work, we collaborate with our colleagues conducting experiments on electric propulsion thrusters in the University of Michigan's Plasmadynamics and Electric Propulsion Laboratory (PEPL) headed by Professor Alec Gallimore. We also have ongoing collaboration with colleagues at the Air Force Research Laboratory, the NASA Glenn Research Center, and the Aerospace Corporation.
Investigators
- Tyler Huismann, Graduate Student
- Paul Giuliano, Graduate Student
- Iain D. Boyd, Professor