New ionic propulsion device for space vehicles - using ionised alkali metal vapour accelerated by charged grid

摘要

New ionic propulsion device uses two chambers sepd. by a partition made of a material which is electronically insulating but which permits ion transfer. One Chamber (I) is fed with an alkali metal in the vapour phase and is maintained at a higher pressure than the other chamber (II). Chamber (II) contains a grid which is an electronic conductor and is electrically connected to a conducting layer on the side of the partition facing chamber (I). The partition is pref. (a) beta alumina contg. sodium and used with Na vapour in chamber (I); or (b) beta alumina contg. Cs, and with Cs vapour in chamber (I). Esp. used for the propulsion of vehicles or missiles in outer space.