The NASA Glenn Research Center ion propulsion program addresses the need for high specific impulse systems and technology across a broad range of mission applications and power levels. One activity is the development of the next-generation ion propulsion system as follow-on to the successful Deep-Space 1 system. The system is envisioned to incorporate a lightweight ion engine capable of operating over 1-10 kW, with a 550 kg propellant throughput capacity. The engine concept under development has a 40 cm beam diameter, twice the effective area of the Deep-Space 1 engine. It incorporates mechanical features and operating conditions to maximize the design heritage established by the Deep-Space 1 engine, while incorporating new technology where warranted to extend the power and throughput capability. Prototype versions of the engine have been fabricated and are under test, with an engineering model version in manufacturing. Preliminary performance data for the prototype engine has been documented over 1.1-7.3 kW input power. At 7.3 kW, the engine efficiency is 0.68, at 3615 seconds specific impulse. Critical component temperatures including the discharge cathode assembly and magnets have been documented and are within established limits, with significant margin relative to the Deep-Space 1 engine.
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