Researchers at the University of Virginia say a new effort to unlock the complex dynamics of electron kinetic behavior in the plasma beams of electric propulsion (EP) engines using supercomputer ...

Hall thrusters are a type of electric propulsion system that utilize plasma to generate thrust. They are increasingly being considered for various space missions due to their efficiency and ...

Helicon plasma propulsion is an innovative technology that utilizes plasma generated by radiofrequency (RF) waves to produce thrust for spacecraft. This method is gaining attention due to its ...

demonstrating thrust comparable to conventional jet engines. Tang’s approach differs from other plasma propulsion systems, such as those used by NASA. For example, NASA’s xenon-based plasma ...

Predicting the lifetime of an electric ion thruster is notoriously difficult. You have to account for the chamber wall ...

“Electric propulsion works by ionizing a neutral gas, usually xenon, and then using electric fields to accelerate the resulting ions. The ions, now forming a high-speed plasma beam, push the ...

Supercomputer simulations advance electric propulsion by tackling ion plume challenges for safer space missions.

Their work sheds new light on electron behavior in plasma beams, potentially shaping the next generation of space propulsion systems. Cui, who joined the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace ...

"Electric propulsion works by ionizing a neutral gas, usually xenon, and then using electric fields to accelerate the resulting ions. The ions, now forming a high-speed plasma beam, push the ...