Spectral characterization of the Hall Effect thruster operating on Kr propellant

Krypton has been viewed by many as a feasible alternative to Xenon gas propellant for EP thrusters. Nowadays, Kr HETs are being used commercially, though they have not been studied as intensively as their Xe analogs. We are reporting our initial results for Busek’s 200W thruster running on Kr propellant, which follow our previous study [1] for Xe. Broad NUV-NIR spectra of the hollow cathode and anode discharges are presented first. Next, detailed EUV-VIS spectra are discussed. Particular attention is given to strong BI-II EUV-MUV emission lines and their dependance on the applied power. The high-resolution spectroscopic system [2] is used to measure axial velocity and possible azimuthal rotation of plasma exhaust via the Doppler Effect of the prominent ionic emission lines. Experimental data are presented and discussed.

[1] O.Batishchev, A.Hyde , J.Szabo, Spectral Characterization of Hall Effect Thruster Exhaust, 62nd Annual APS DPP Meeting, NP14.00013, November 11th, 2020

[2] A. Hyde, O. Batishchev, Review of Sci. Instr. 91(063502), June 2020.