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Institute of Space Propulsion, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Lampoldshausen, Germany
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Department of Applied Physics and Space Technologies, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT), Russia
Abstract
The Magnetic Field Oscillating Amplified (MOA) thruster presents a novel approach to plasma propulsion, leveraging oscillating magnetic fields to enhance ion acceleration and plasma confinement. This study investigates the thermal dynamics of plasma within the MOA thruster, with a particular focus on the role of adiabatic heating. We examine the temporal and spatial evolution of plasma temperature and pressure under varying magnetic field strengths, using computational simulations and laboratory diagnostics. Results indicate that adiabatic compression driven by magnetic field oscillations significantly contributes to plasma heating, increasing thermal energy and ion velocities. The findings offer insights into optimizing MOA thruster designs for efficient energy transfer and enhanced propulsion performance.
📄Frischauf N, Hettmer M, Grassauer A, Bartusch T, Koudelka PO. MOA: Magnetic Field Oscillating Amplified Thruster. In: 56th International Astronautical Congress of the International Astronautical Federation, the International Academy of Astronautics, and the International Institute of Space Law; 2005. p. C4-6.
📄Frischauf N, Hettmer M, Grassauer A, Bartusch T, Koudelka O. Recent developments of the MOA thruster, a high performance plasma accelerator for nuclear power and propulsion applications. In: Proceedings of the 2008 International Congress on Advances in Nuclear Power Plants (ICAPP'08); 2008.
📄Frischauf N, Hettmer M, Grassauer A, Bartusch T, Koudelka O. Recent Achievements in the Development of the MOA Thruster, a high Performance Plasma Accelerator for Space and Terrestrial Applications. In: Proceedings of the IAC 2009 Congress, 60th International Astronautical Congress (IAC); Republic of Korea; 2009.
📄Frischauf N, Hettmer M, Koudelka O, Löb H. MOA2—an R&D paradigm buster enabling space propulsion by commercial applications. In: Proceedings of the IAC 2010 Congress, 61st International Astronautical Congress (IAC); Czech Republic; 2010.
📄Frischauf N, Hettmer M, Grassauer A, Bartusch T, Koudelka O. Recent activities in the development of the MOA thruster. Acta Astronautica. 2008 Jul 1; 63(1-4):389–399.
📄Frischauf N, Hettmer M, Koudelka O, Löb H. MOA2—an R&D paradigm buster enabling space propulsion by commercial applications. Acta Astronautica. 2012 Apr 1; 73:173–182.
📄Hettmer M. New Technology: Austrian Plasma Propulsion. Raumfahrt-Concret. 2/2006.
📄Löb H. Nuclear Engineering for Satellites and Rockets. Munich: Thiemig; 1970.
