Advances in Impedance Probe Applications and Design in the NRL Space Physics Simulation Chamber

POSTER

Abstract

We will present recent progress in plasma impedance probe experiments and design at NRL's Space Physics Simulation Chamber. These include our network analyzer S-parameter methods as well as more portable self-contained diagnostics with an eye towards space vehicle applications. The experiments are performed under a variety of conditions with magnetized and unmagnetized collisionless, cold ($T_e\approx1-2$eV) plasmas in density ranges of 10$^5$-10$^8$cm$^{-3}$. Large and small spheres, disks, floating dipoles and monopoles are all in development with various electronic setups, along with traditional emissive and Langmuir probes for measurement redundancy. New computational results provide experimental predictions over a larger parameter space.

Authors

  • David Blackwell

    Plasma Physics Division, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, Plasma Physics Division, Naval Research Laboratory

  • David Walker

    Sotera Defense Solutions, Inc.

  • Christopher Cothran

    Sotera Defense Solutions, Inc.

  • George Gatling

    Plasma Physics Division, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC

  • Erik Tejero

    Plasma Physics Division, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC

  • Bill Amatucci

    Naval Research Laboratory, Plasma Physics Division, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC