Magazine Article

Variable-Specific-Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket

TBMG-1768

09/01/2001

Abstract
Content

Johnson Space Center has been leading the development of a high-power, electrothermal plasma rocket — the variable- specific-impulse magnetoplasma rocket (VASIMR) — that is capable of exhaust modulation at constant power. An electrodeless design enables the rocket to operate at power densities much greater than those of more conventional magnetoplasma or ion engines. An aspect of the engine design that affords a capability to achieve both high and variable specific impulse (Isp) places the VASIMR far ahead of anything available today. Inasmuch as this rocket can utilize hydrogen as its propellant, it can be operated at relatively low cost.

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Citation
"Variable-Specific-Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket," Mobility Engineering, September 1, 2001.
Additional Details
Publisher
Published
Sep 1, 2001
Product Code
TBMG-1768
Content Type
Magazine Article
Language
English