A report discusses the design and testing of a laboratory-model arc-jet thruster designed to operate at a nominal power level of 300 W. This thruster is an intermediate product of continuing efforts to develop smaller, lower-power, higher-specific-impulse thrusters for use in a forthcoming generation of small communication and scientific satellites. The thruster features a modular design, with a nozzle geometry chosen to promote supersonic-arc attachment.
This work was done by John M. Sankovic of Lewis Research Center and David T. Jacobson of Ohio State University. To obtain a copy of the report, "Performance of a Miniaturized Arcjet," access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.techbriefs.com under the Machinery/ Automation category.
Inquiries concerning rights for the commercial use of this invention should be addressed to
NASA Lewis Research Center
Commercial Technology Office
Attn: Tech Brief Patent Status
Mail Stop 7-3
21000 Brookpark Road
Cleveland
Ohio 44135.
Refer to LEW-16503.
