With the resounding success of the first successful ignition testing of the AIS-gPPT2-1C Single-Channel Gridded Pulsed Plasma Thruster, additional qualifications could be explored to start better gauging thruster performance. The two major tests at this stage include lifetime testing, and … Continued
After the first two failed ignition attempts of the AIS-uPPT1 and the AIS-gPPT1 thrusters, I began work immediately on the next generation thruster, focusing on continuing my efforts with the gPPT Gridded Pulsed Plasma Thruster line. From the prior testing … Continued
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 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