Radio-Frequency Ion Thruster with Additional Magnetic Field: Experimental Investigation

Abstract

Performances of a radio-frequency ion thruster with an additional external magnetic field in the area of the high-frequency discharge are experimentally investigated and the results of the investigation are presented. The calculated distribution of a magnetic field generated by an additional magnetic system for the current in the winding 1 A is given. How an additional external magnetic field influences on the ion current is examined. Performances of a laboratory model of a radio-frequency ion thruster with and without a constant external magnetic field are compared. Modes of thruster operation and current values in a magnetic system’s windings under which the increment of ion current is minimal are determined.