Time-resolved electron temperature oscillations in Hall thrusters

Abstract

Hall thruster discharge dynamics are complex and are largely influenced by the time-dependent behavior of electrons in the thruster channel. FastOES, a novel non-invasive diagnostic, enables time-resolved measurements of electron temperature in the plasma. In this study, temporal measurements of the electron temperature during breathing mode oscillations reveal that the electron temperature may exhibit significant oscillations in the thruster discharge channel. Notably, the electron temperature in the thruster channel consistently oscillates 180° out of phase with the discharge current for a broad range of thruster conditions. Furthermore, a loose scaling relationship between the amplitude of the electron temperature and the discharge current oscillations offers insight into the complex interactions within Hall thrusters.