The application of coherent microwave scattering and multiphoton ionization for diagnostics of electric propulsion systems

Abstract

Nonintrusive measurements of plasma properties are essential to evaluate, and numerically simulate, the in-flight performance of electric propulsion systems. As a logical first step in the development of new diagnostic techniques, this work depicts the implementation of multiphoton ionization and coherent microwave scattering (MPI-CMS) in a gridded-ion accelerator operating on rare gases. Presented studies primarily comprise photoionization spectroscopy of ground and excited state-populations of both neutrals and ions—supplemented by optical emission spectroscopy and Langmuir probe derived plume properties. Results suggest the potential of MPI-CMS for non-intrusive measurements of species number densities.