The Status of Laser Diagnostics Supporting Ion Thruster Development at NASA GRC

In order to measure sputtered atoms and plasma properties which lead to erosion in ion thrusters, laser diagnostics are being incorporated in the NASA Glenn Research Center’s ion propulsion development program. Laser diagnostic capabilities include UV and IR laser -induced fluorescence and laser interferometry. Objectives of the diagnostics, issues associated with their implementation, and paths to reach the objectives are presented.

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