An electron-cyclotron resonance thruster (ECRT) prototype is simulated numerically, using
two coupled models: a hybrid particle-in-cell/fluid model for the integration of the plasma …

Experiments and simulations are used to analyze a compact helicon plasma thruster with a
cusp in its internal magnetic field. The former rely on a compensated Langmuir probe and a …

This Perspective paper deals with an overview of particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo collision
models applied to different plasma-propulsion configurations and scenarios, from …

HYPHEN is a new two-dimensional axisymmetric hybrid, particle-in-cell (PIC)/fluid multi-
thruster simulation platform under development. This work presents the last modeling …

This thesis is dedicated to the development of several diagnostics for the characterization of
electric propulsion devices in general and of RF and helicon plasma thrusters in particular …

Direct thrust measurements by means of a thrust balance (TB) are the golden standard for
measuring thrust and, concurrently, the specific impulse in electric thrusters. To measure …

In the current electric propulsion industry for space applications, two of the main issues
are:(i) the lifetime limitation of the mature technologies, Hall effect thrusters and gridded ion …

An efficient radiofrequency power coupling is one of the main challenges that remain to be
solved in the operation of Helicon Plasma Thrusters (HPTs). This work presents an …

The novel magnetic arch thruster concept is presented, which features a 'C'-shaped
discharge chamber and a toroidal applied magnetic field. A preliminary collisionless …

1.1. Background Electric Propulsion (EP) is a form of in-space propulsion that utilizes electric
power from an external source, such as solar panels or batteries, to ionize a neutral gas and …