タイトル | Helicon Plasma Injector and Ion Cyclotron Acceleration Development in the VASIMR Experiment |
本文(外部サイト) | http://hdl.handle.net/2060/20100029999 |
著者(英) | Squire, Jared P.; Bengtson, Roger D.; Jacobson, Verlin T.; Chang, Franklin R.; McCaskill, Greg E.; Goulding, Richard H. |
著者所属(英) | NASA Johnson Space Center |
発行日 | 2000-07-17 |
言語 | eng |
内容記述 | In the Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR) radio frequency (rf) waves both produce the plasma and then accelerate the ions. The plasma production is done by action of helicon waves. These waves are circular polarized waves in the direction of the electron gyromotion. The ion acceleration is performed by ion cyclotron resonant frequency (ICRF) acceleration. The Advanced Space Propulsion Laboratory (ASPL) is actively developing efficient helicon plasma production and ICRF acceleration. The VASIMR experimental device at the ASPL is called VX-10. It is configured to demonstrate the plasma production and acceleration at the 10kW level to support a space flight demonstration design. The VX-10 consists of three electromagnets integrated into a vacuum chamber that produce magnetic fields up to 0.5 Tesla. Magnetic field shaping is achieved by independent magnet current control and placement of the magnets. We have generated both helium and hydrogen high density (>10(exp 18) cu m) discharges with the helicon source. ICRF experiments are underway. This paper describes the VX-10 device, presents recent results and discusses future plans. |
NASA分類 | Spacecraft Propulsion and Power |
レポートNO | JSC-CN-6243 AIAA Paper 2000-3752 |
権利 | Copyright, Distribution as joint owner in the copyright |