Measurement of Electron Density in RP-Laser Thruster Using Mach-Zender Interferometry

摘要

In RP laser propulsion, a laser supported detonation (LSD) wave is known driven at Mach number of 3 - 10 during the laser heating. This laser absorption mechanism is very important for efficient energy conversion in a vehicle. However, the actual propagation mechanism is unknown, and the dependence on operation parameters is unpredictable. In this study, electron density distribution behind a shock wave has been measured by means of Mach-Zehnder Interferometry for understanding of the plasma behavior and ionization mechanism at the wave front.