The use of high exhaust velocity in a space vehicle after gravitational forces have been overcome is made necessary by the large mass loss inherent with high thrust low specific impulse devices needed for takeoff (Addendum l). Increased maneuverability, greater range and larger payloads are obvious advantages which accrue from the development of a successful high specific impulse system.nThis report considers a little-explored but promising high specific impulse method:the arc-ion system. The ion source used with this system utilizes an arc for ionization of the propellant and the resultant ions are accelerated electrostatically. The arc system of ionization is adaptable to advanced methods of space-charge neutralization because the arc is trans-f parent to high-energy electrons which can be passed through it. These electrons reduce the positive ion space potential in the accelerating gap and drift spaces.
展开▼
