Plasma Propulsion

Plasma propulsion is a fascinating avenue of research in the field of space exploration and technology, which is largely driven by the continuous pursuit of faster, more efficient, and sustainable ways to traverse the seemingly infinite distances in space. Spacecraft that can efficiently reach high speeds and maintain them over long distances have been the focus of numerous space agencies, research institutions, and private corporations across the globe.

There have been numerous videos circulating on the internet that seemingly depict Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) utilizing advanced propulsion systems, some of which have been suggested to resemble plasma jets. These reports often describe objects moving at incredibly high speeds, changing direction abruptly, and maneuvering in ways that seem to defy our current understanding of aerodynamics and propulsion. The supposed “glow” or “aura” that some of these objects appear to emanate, often changing intensity and color, has led some to propose that these could be manifestations of plasma propulsion.

The central tenet of plasma propulsion is the principle of ionized gas, or plasma, being ejected at high velocities to create a reactive force that propels the spacecraft forward. This concept fundamentally rests on Newton’s Third Law of Motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. The “action” here is the ejection of the plasma, and the “reaction” is the movement of the spacecraft in the opposite direction. This principle forms the basis of many different types of rocket propulsion systems, with the key differences being the type of propellant used and how it’s ejected.

One of the primary types of plasma propulsion systems currently in use is the Hall effect thruster. This type of engine ionizes propellant by accelerating it to high speeds through an electric field. The ions are then ejected out the back of the engine to produce thrust. It was first developed in the Soviet Union in the 1950s and 1960s, and today, it’s being used and further developed by organizations such as NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA).

According to a report published by NASA, Hall effect thrusters are more efficient than traditional chemical rockets. They are capable of achieving much higher speeds over time while using less propellant, making them ideal for long-duration missions. One of the key advantages is their “specific impulse,” a measure of how effectively a rocket uses propellant. The specific impulse of Hall effect thrusters is significantly higher than that of conventional rockets, which translates into better fuel efficiency. Despite these advantages, one of the challenges is the amount of time it takes for Hall effect thrusters to reach these high speeds, making them currently unsuitable for human missions, which require more immediate acceleration.

Dr. Alec D. Gallimore, a renowned scientist and Dean of Engineering at the University of Michigan, has been actively involved in the research and development of plasma propulsion systems. In a research paper published in the Journal of Propulsion and Power, Gallimore explained the immense potential of plasma propulsion for deep space exploration.

In “Plasma Propulsion for Spacecraft: The Next Generation” by Dr. Mario Merino, the potential and ongoing advancements in the field of plasma propulsion are highlighted, with an emphasis on the role of these propulsion systems in future interplanetary and interstellar missions.

Group K within the NRL is specifically dedicated to research on plasma and related physics, with a strong focus on developing plasma-based propulsion systems. They strive to understand the underlying physics of plasma better and use this understanding to improve and innovate propulsion technologies for use in space vehicles. This work is essential for maintaining the technological edge of the U.S. in space exploration and potentially defense-related applications.

Apart from the NRL, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is another U.S. military research group actively involved in researching plasma propulsion, among other advanced propulsion technologies. The AFRL’s Space Vehicles Directorate has been particularly active in researching electric and plasma propulsion systems for spacecraft, continually working on the development of innovative technologies to keep the U.S. at the forefront of space exploration and satellite deployment.

Plasma propulsion represents a promising technology for future space travel. While there are hurdles to overcome, the continuous advancements in this field paint a promising picture of what lies ahead.