High performance of high-temperature-superconducting MPD thrusters: analytical MHD modeling and experimental demonstration.

ABSTRACT: The integration of high-temperature superconductors into electric propulsion systems, particularly applied-field magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters (AF-MPDTs), has recently garnered significant attention. However, research on low-power, high-temperature-superconducting (HTS)-based MPDTs, which are crucial for small satellites and CubeSats, remains limited. The increasing demand for compact, high-efficiency propulsion in low Earth orbit underscores the need for scalable HTS-AF-MPDT systems operating below 15 kW. Despite this, challenges such as the lack of detailed theoretical models, limited plasma diagnostics and excessive Joule heating in conventional copper magnets persist. In this work, using a downscaled version of a 25 kW HTS-based AF-MPDT, we address these limitations by developing and

SUBMITTER: Zheng J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12839541 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature