Near-Term High Power Ion Propulsion Options for Earth- Orbital Applications

There is a convergence in requirements among various elements of the U.S. government and commercial industry relative to high-power electric propulsion systems for Earth- orbital applications, and in the advancement of high power lightweight photovoltaic array technologies. Some of these requirements and capabilities align well with NASA electric propulsion technologies, and specifically ion propulsion. NASA's investment strategy in electric propulsion over the last decade has established the ground work for the development of a number of high power ion thruster concepts, which have evolved to various levels of technology readiness. Some of these concepts could provide the basis for the development of flight ion propulsion systems consistent with Earth-orbital applications needs. This could allow for the fielding of high power systems (20 - 80 kW) with single thruster power handling capability of up to 20 kW and higher, and do so within a decade. This paper identifies and examines a number of thruster options. Assessments of technology readiness level, development roadmaps, technology challenges, and schedule are provided.