College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Aerospace Engineering Department
Advisor
Dianne Deturris, College of Engineering, Aerospace Engineering Department
Date
10-2025
Abstract/Summary
This research focuses on optimizing the configuration of a 13cm ion thruster for long term efficiency. Ion thrusters produce thrust for spacecraft when they are in orbit. The thruster needs to be efficient enough to last for the lifetime of the spacecraft as well as through its deorbit procedure. Thruster efficiency is achieved through optimizing the distribution of the high velocity beam of charged particles at the exit that impacts fatigue patterns on voltage grids. The shape of the beam is determined by the placement of magnets on the thruster walls. An experiment to test configurations for increasing efficiency through beam uniformity will be completed with a goal of documenting and publishing test results at an AIAA conference for use in the electric propulsion industry.
October 1, 2025.
Included in
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/ceng_surp/116