Development of electrodeless electric propulsion systems using high-density helicon plasmas: The HEAT project

Abstract

In order to develop completely electrodeless next generation plasma thrusters for deep space missions, we have initiated the HEAT (Helicon Electrodeless Advanced Thruster) project. In our scheme, source plasmas are generated by means of the highly efficient helicon-wave discharge; they are then electromagnetically accelerated using external antennas to yield a thrust. The entire process can be achieved without using any eroding electrodes, leading to plasma thrusters of a limitless lifetime.