Operation Characteristics of a Steady-State, Two-Dimensional MPD Thruster Using a Hollow Cathode

Abstract

This paper reports operation characteristics of a steady-state, two-dimensional magnetoplasmadynamics (MPD) thruster using a hollow cathode. In order to improve cathode performance, a tungsten rod was replaced with a hollow cathode which had better electron emission performance and a longer lifetime. A rectangular acceleration section was employed between electrodes. The discharge voltage and thrust were measured with varying an applied magnetic field, discharge current and propellant mass flow rate.