Research Progress of Radio Frequency Ion Thruster

MA Longfei1, HE Jianwu1,2, LUO Jun1, ZHANG Chu1, YANG Chao1, FU Jiahao2, DUAN Li1,2, KANG Qi1,2

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Journal of Deep Space Exploration ›› 2024, Vol. 11 ›› Issue (2) : 111-123. DOI: 10.15982/j.issn.2096-9287.2024.20230036

Research Progress of Radio Frequency Ion Thruster

  • MA Longfei1, HE Jianwu1,2, LUO Jun1, ZHANG Chu1, YANG Chao1, FU Jiahao2, DUAN Li1,2, KANG Qi1,2
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Abstract

The principle of radio frequency ion thrusters(RIT),as well as the research history and achievements of micro-newton and milli-Newton RIT at home and abroad in the past 60 years,was explained in detail. The radio frequency ion propulsion system involves a number of key technical challenges. Preliminary solutions to the problems of propellant selection, radio frequency(RF)circuit impedance matching,gas flow control,electrical neutralization control and lifetime were proposed, and the development trend and research direction were put forward combined with the future application of RIT.

Keywords

radio frequency ion thruster / electric propulsion / micro thrust

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MA Longfei, HE Jianwu, LUO Jun, ZHANG Chu, YANG Chao, FU Jiahao, DUAN Li, KANG Qi. Research Progress of Radio Frequency Ion Thruster. Journal of Deep Space Exploration, 2024, 11(2): 111‒123 https://doi.org/10.15982/j.issn.2096-9287.2024.20230036

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