Magnetic Nozzle Modeling for Fusion Space Propulsion

Magnetic nozzles are a promising propulsion system for future space endeavors, due to their high thrust and specific impulse capabilities. This research investigates modeling for the magnetic nozzle portion of a fusion space propulsion system, as well as the performance capabilities of magnetic nozzles. The implementation of a quasi-1D magnetic nozzle plasma model is discussed. The model consisted of a system of equations, which were solved in MATLAB at discrete intervals along the magnetic nozzle axis. The results of this implementation were compared to experimental data to observe the accuracy of the model. The model was consistent with experimental data, as similar trends were observed between the model and experiment results. Additionally, an analysis of magnetic nozzle performance was completed to examine the thrust and specific impulse capabilities of this propulsion system. The analysis utilized a direct method to estimate jet efficiency for a magnetic nozzle. The results revealed the high flexibility of magnetic nozzles, due to high thrust capabilities in the low specific impulse range of 0 seconds to 5000 seconds.