| Autor: |
Karg, Stephanie, Scharring, Stefan, Eckel, Hans-Albert |
| Předmět: |
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| Zdroj: |
AIP Conference Proceedings; 7/30/2012, Vol. 1464 Issue 1, p640-647, 8p, 2 Black and White Photographs, 1 Diagram, 2 Graphs |
| Abstrakt: |
Low thrust engines with high specific impulse and long lifetime that allow for precise distance control in satellite formation flight and compensation of small disturbing forces become increasingly important in missions for geodetic purposes or astronomic science. Currently available microthrusters cannot yet meet these demands. Laser ablative micropropulsion is a relatively new concept that has already proven its potential for providing very small impulse bits and high specific impulses. Additionally, by using electro-optic beam control even the most stringent conditions like "no moving parts" could be met. An overview of the experimental facilities for characterization of the ablation process and future plans for the experimental setups are presented. In a first step, laser ablation of metal targets in a vacuum vessel using short pulse solid state laser sources is investigated. In this paper we present first results on Faraday cup and profilometry measurements and discuss their impact on further investigations of plume characteristics. Future experimental goals as well as DLR's research strategy for the development of precise and reliable laser ablation microthrusters are addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
| Databáze: |
Complementary Index |
| Externí odkaz: |
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