Monte-Carlo particle dynamics in a variable specific impulse magnetoplasma rocket

Journal Article · Fri Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1999 · Fusion Technology

OSTI ID:328352

Ilin, A V ^[1]; Diaz, F R.C.; Squire, J P ^[2]; Carter, M D ^[3]

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1. Lockheed Martin Space Mission Systems and Services, Houston, TX (United States)
2. JSC/NASA, Houston, TX (United States). Advanced Space Propulsion Lab.
3. Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)

The self-consistent mathematical model in a Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR) is examined. Of particular importance is the effect of a magnetic nozzle in enhancing the axial momentum of the exhaust. Also, different geometries and rocket symmetries are considered. The magnetic configuration is modeled with an adaptable mesh, which increases accuracy without compromising the speed of the simulation. The single particle trajectories are integrated with an adaptive time-scheme, which can quickly solve extensive Monte-Carlo simulations for systems of hundred thousands of particles in a reasonable time (1--2 hours) and without the need for a powerful supercomputer.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
• OSTI ID: 328352
• Journal Information: Fusion Technology, Vol. 35, Issue 1T; Other Information: DN: Paper presented at the international conference on open magnetic systems for plasma confinement, July 27--31, 1998, Novosibirsk (RU); PBD: Jan 1999
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS
ROCKET ENGINES
MONTE CARLO METHOD
PLASMA SIMULATION
MAGNETIC SHIELDING
MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS
NOZZLES
MAGNETIC FIELD CONFIGURATIONS