Kink instability suppression and improved efficiency in magneto-plasma-dynamic thrusters

Helical kink mode suppression in a magneto-plasma-dynamic thruster for space propulsion drives the plasma to a quasiquiescent state. As a result the power required to sustain the plasma current is largely reduced. Kink suppression has been obtained by interrupting the helical current components associated with the spontaneous distortion of the plasma column. This result, while confirming that power balance is largely influenced by plasma instabilities, makes, in principle, this kind of device a good choice for long-term space missions. © 2006 American Institute of Physics.