Miniature Microwave Discharge Ion Thruster Driven by 1 Watt Microwave Power

摘要

To develop a 10-W-class miniature ion thruster for use with 10-50 kg spacecraft, we have developed the μ1, a new miniature microwave discharge ion thruster. Its design and development were conducted with the purpose of specifically examining low microwave power operation (0.2-5 W) with low discharge losses. Input microwaves were effectively coupled to the plasma with no tuning device.