Amy Wendt edited untitled.tex  over 8 years ago

Commit id: 7c865588d86cc27352cf4c0ce8553343c08c7d63

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The new display will add a working plasma thruster to the exhibit, one that operates at atmospheric pressure and has a modest tabletop footprint, adapted from a recently published design\cite{make2015}. Operating at 300 watts, the thrust produced will be small, but observable through the deflection of a lightweight object such as a piece of paper in the path of the thruster ``exhaust.'' Visitors will also get a taste of plasma spectroscopy by looking at the thruster plasma through a low-cost diffraction gratings; distinct spectral features are expected in the visible portion of the spectrum. Additional diagnostics will include thermal sensors, which we expect to show a comparatively cool exhaust. The diagnostics may be utilized to spark discussions about efficiencies in converting energy sources to thrust; a very important consideration for long distance space travel.   The UW plasma spectroscopy group will contribute parts and supplies and will work with Rocket Cub members to build the thruster. In addition, we will work with the high school students to design and print a companion poster to go with the thruster. With an emphasis on graphics and simple explanations,topics included on the  poster topics  may include: a) what's a plasma? b) electric propulsion and principles of plasma thruster operation (no moving parts, no exothermic reactions!), c) comparison between plasma thrusters, chemical rockets, etc., d)examples of  current and proposed uses of ion thrusters, such as satellite maneuvering and long-distance space flights, e) examples of other plasma applications.