Microwave discharge ECR ion engines produce plasma by electron heating through electron cyclotron resonance and subsequent collision with neutrals. Understanding and improving the way in which power is transferred from the microwave source to plasma has great importance for this type of engine’s performance. A general theoretical formulation of the microwave power absorption efficiency has been developed, by assuming Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution. Focusing on μ10, plasma properties in different chamber regions have been investigated, based on results from numerical simulations. Experimental measurement of the microwave power absorption efficiency has been performed with Langmuir probes. Combined results led to improved theoretical and practical characterization of ECR ion thrusters, which gave hints for optimization and future engines design.
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