In my previous blog post, I discussed the first ignition test of the AIS-gPPT1 Gridded Pulsed Plasma Thruster. Unfortunately, the test was unsuccessful. The thruster design did not allow for consistent and reliable ignition, and during the course of the … Continued
I. TESTING SUMMARY Immediately after the prior day’s unsuccessful ignition attempt of the AIS-uPPT1 Micro Pulsed Plasma Thruster, preparations were made to mount the second thruster in the chamber and begin ignition testing of the AIS-gPPT1 Gridded Pulsed Plasma Thruster. … Continued
I. TESTING OVERVIEW On May 5th, 2019, I attempted the first ignition test of the AIS-uPPT1 Micro Pulsed Plasma Thruster, after the prior day’s successful pumpdown and confirmation of the system at high vacuum. This was a big step forward … Continued
A few nights ago, on May 1st, 2019, I achieved the biggest and most significant milestone yet at Applied Ion Systems since I first started these efforts over a year ago – the first full system qualification test and high … Continued