Initial results from a Hall-effect plasma thruster with permanent magnets

Summary form only given. Our work shows results from a Hall Thruster with an innovative magnetic field source made by permanent magnets. The Thruster design was adapted from SPT-100, but the channel acquire new dimensions in order to support the magnets. The magnetic field space profile is very similar to the traditional Hall thruster with electromagnet solenoid circuit, however in the plasma plume region it has higher magnetic induction values. The discharges was made with 235 Volts and 0,5 to 1,5 Amperes, using Argon gas. The calculated thrust is about 72mN, but with very low specific impulse and efficiency. First results of plasma flow current and thrust dependence on discharge voltage, gas flow rate will be shown. Observed low frequency oscillations spectrum is studied.