A Short Review of Experimental and Computational Diagnostics for Radiofrequency Plasma Micro-thrusters

Experimental and computational diagnostics for radiofrequency plasma micro-thrusters are presented, based on the low power (10–100 W) electrothermal thruster prototype, Mini Pocket Rocket, developed for use on the Cubesat nanosatellite platform. Computer simulations include computer fluid dynamics simulations and particle in cell simulations while experimental results are obtained using a variety of electrostatic, optical and momentum probes. The output and limitations of each diagnostic are discussed within the context of device development for space use.

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