Prototyping of Mini-Magnetospheric Plasma Propulsion (M2P2)

Prof. Robert Winglee
Department of Earth and Space Sciences
University of Washington

Mini-Magnetospheric Plasma Propulsion (M2P2) seeks to harness energy from the solar wind to provide advanced propulsion for spacecraft with high specific impulse and thrust. Propulsion is achieved through the reflecting the solar wind which is moving at 300 - 800 km/s off a magnetic wall or bubble supported by magnets on the spacecraft and which is inflated by the injection of low energy plasma. Plasma injection allows the deployment of the magnetic field in space over large distances (15 to 30 km) with field strengths that can be achieved with existing technology and eliminates the need for the deployment of large mechanical structures that are presently envisaged for a solar sails. Results from a laboratory prototype are presented showing the creation of the plasma, its outflow along magnetic field lines, and the motion of the fields lines produced by the plasma injection are presented. These experimental results confirm the simulations suggestions that inflation of the magnetic field can lead to plasma deflection over large distances. Consequences for possible missions for the exploration of the solar systems are discussed.