MadSci Network: Physics
Query:

Re: What courses will be helpful to understand the physics of ion propulsion?

Date: Fri Apr 23 21:52:56 1999
Posted By: Troy Goodson, Staff, Spacecraft Navigation, Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Area of science: Physics
ID: 923506081.Ph
Message:

I can think of two routes you might pursue with regards to any type of electric propulsion. You might consider a graduate degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in physics and/or aerospace engineering. In either one you will learn how such propulsion devices work, for what purposes they are used, what the current direction of research is, and what sort of problems there are for you to work on.

The physics route is going to direct you more toward science side of things. Of course, as an undergraduate you may hear very little mention of propulsion, itself. Instead you'll be learning about electromagnetic fields, interactions of subatomic particles, etc. You'll learn about principles kinematics, Newtonian physics, modern (or Einsteinain) physics, quantum mechanics, and so on.

As an aerospace engineering undergraduate, you'll first learn the principles of flight (propellor, jet, and rocket) and move on to more specific areas. You'll learn about flight dynamics for aircraft, helicopters, and spacecraft. They'll teach you the basics of how to design jet engines and rockets. You may have the opportunity to take elective classes in rocketry, combustion, and propulsion (which might include electric propulsion).

Of course, there are many paths to any goal and I have only outlined two. I would suggest you schedule a meeting with a professor of physics and another meeting with a professor of aerospace engineering. These two people will really be able to help you in this goal. On the other hand, if they don't seem very helpful, you may need to transfer to another university.

Not all universities are equal. For example, you'd probably have more opportunity to study this sort of thing at a place like the University of Tennessee Space Institute or Princeton than where you are now.

(see http://campuscgi.princeton.edu/~scg/dept/mae/550/reg.s99.shtml)

At the same time you can get a preview of what electric propulsion is all about from the following two books:

Hill, Philip G., and Peterson, Carl R., Mechanics and Thermodynamics of Propulsion, Addison-Wesley Publishing Company

Jahn, Robert G., Physics of electric propulsion, Mcgraw-hill series in missile and space technology

If you can't find them in your library, ask a librarian about interlibrary loan.

As for specific courses - that depends on your university, each one is different and I can only suggest that you talk to your own faculty.

Good luck and please write back to let me know if I was helpful! (I hate giving out advice and never finding out if it was any good :)

Troy.


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