Plasma electric propulsion

Principal Investigator: Jorge Gonzalez

At the UPM PlasmaLab, we develop new plasma propulsion systems for small satellites (< 200 kg). Our alphie (Alternative Low-Power Hybrid Ion Engine) propulsion system is a new technology that offers advantages over conventional systems, reducing complexity and improving efficiency.

We also focus on developing new low-power cathodes for electric propulsion systems onboard small satellites.

Our alphie plasma thruster Prototype of a low-power cathode
based on secondary emission

Papers:

  • L. Conde, P. E. Maldonado, J. Damba, J. Gonzalez, J. L. Domenech-Garret, J. M. Donoso, and M. A. Castillo, Physics of the High Specific Impulse Alternative Low Power Hybrid Ion Engine (Alphie): Direct Thrust Measurements and Plasma Plume Kinetics, J. Appl. Phys. 131, (2022). 10.1063/5.0067214

Low-temperature plasma simulation

Principal Investigator: Jose Manuel Donoso

 

Plasma diagnostic

Principal Investigator: Jorge Gonzalez

To improve our thrusters and cathodes, we operate and develop various plasma diagnostics, particularly Langmuir probes. These results are also useful to validate our simulations and theoretical models.

Positioning system with multiple diagnostics

Papers:

  • L. Conde, J. Gonzalez, J. M. Donoso, J. L. Domenech-Garret, and M. A. Castillo, Thrust Measurements and Mesothermal Plasma Plume of the Alternative Low Power Hybrid Ion Engine (Alphie), Journal of Electric Propulsion 1, (2022). 10.1007/s44205-022-00027-6
  • S. P. Tierno, J. M. Donoso, J. L. Domenech-Garret, and L. Conde, Existence of a Virtual Cathode close to a Strongly Electron Emissive Wall in Low Density Plasmas, Phys. Plasmas 23, (2016). 10.1063/1.4939042

Non-equilibrium classic and quantum plasmas

Principal Investigator: Juan Luis Domenech-Garret

 

Chaos theory and intermittency

Principal investigator: Ezequiel del Rio