On the Feasibility of using the Interplanetary Solar Wind Plasma Flow to Generate Electricity for Spacecraft
Abstract
This paper explores the feasibility of a different method of power generation for spacecraft with a higher power density per weight and volume than conventional forms of spacecraft electrical power generation. The flow of interplanetary space plasma ions, when guided through a perpendicular magnetic field, can generate voltage that is picked up by electrode plates using a process known as Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) generation. This results in an electrical current that could be used to power space-based orbiting satellites, probes, stations, habitations, and interplanetary missions to charge batteries, power communications, propulsion, guidance, navigation and control.
Recommended Citation
C. N. Torre et al., "On the Feasibility of using the Interplanetary Solar Wind Plasma Flow to Generate Electricity for Spacecraft," Proceedings of the AIAA Science and Technology Forum and Exposition (2022, San Diego, CA), article no. AIAA 2022-0316, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), Jan 2022.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2022-0316
Meeting Name
AIAA Science and Technology Forum and Exposition, AIAA SciTech Forum 2022 (2022: Jan. 3-7, San Diego, CA, and Virtual)
Department(s)
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
International Standard Book Number (ISBN)
978-162410631-6
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2022 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), All rights reserved.
Publication Date
07 Jan 2022
