New plasma rocket engine: A promising experiment harnessing a hybrid of chemical and ion technology

[ElVibrio]

One small engine for one man, giant drive for mankind?

[glebkulev]

The engine is actually not so small (1/4 ton-force) and can be used to accelerate the third stage of the orbital module. During testing, it operated at minimum thrust. It is designed for 5 ton-force, but the limitations of my stand did not allow me to test it at higher power.

The existing rocket engine cycle is exactly one hundred years old (it was developed by an American - Robert Goddard), since then the cycle of this engine has been brought to perfection. However, the laws of thermodynamics limit this cycle. It is not possible to significantly increase the impulse (which is the engine efficiency characteristic).

However, through a series of experiments, I managed to find an approach that removes these restrictions.

And yes, this is an opportunity for humanity.

[OGR_kha]

Respect!