Scheduled Development of the TIHTUS System: Geometric Optimisation and Alternative Propellant Operation (original) (raw)

In order to further the performance and understanding of coupled DC-RF electric propulsion systems, development of the TIHTUS (Thermal-Inductive Thruster of the University of Stuttgart) has been scheduled at the Institute for Space Systems (IRS). This development pursues two parallel objectives, being geometric optimisation of the thruster and an investigation into alternative propellants. Optimisation will focus on reducing distance between the DC and RF generators (in order to decrease losses due to species recombination), as well as decreasing the thickness of the inductive stage discharge tube (to increase power coupled into the flow). The study of propellants will investigate gases obtainable from locations of interest within the solar system, as well as those which are otherwise discarded as waste from crew life support systems. These studies will be conducted both experimentally, at the IRS TIHTUS facility, as well as numerically using the SINA (Sequential Iterative Non-equilibrium Algorithm) numerical model. The combination of these two programs are intended to allow a greater understanding of potential performance and potential mission-types for the TIHTUS system.