Operating Characteristics of an Anode Layer Type Hall Thruster

Abstract

Thrust performance and stable operation conditions of an anode layer type Hall thruster was investigated using a 1.5kW class anode layer type Hall thruster. The thrust efficiency reached at 53% with the specific impulse of 2,000s, which are competitive with these of SPT-100 thrusters. Anode shape and axial position of the anode were changed. Stability of the discharge was found sensitive to the anode configuration and applied magnetic flux density.