Applied-Field Magnetoplasmadynamic Thrusters (AF-MPDTs) are electric propulsion devices that use strong magnetic fields to accelerate plasma and generate thrust. They can operate at high power and with a variety of propellants, making them promising for future space missions. However, further experimental characterization is needed to better understand their performance. My project focuses on developing a magnetic field mapping diagnostic for an AF-MPDT under development at the MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center (PSFC) and the MIT Space Propulsion Laboratory (SPL). I will design and fabricate a system that uses a Hall probe and a motorized positioning stage to measure the magnetic field at different locations around the thruster. I will operate the diagnostic in a vacuum chamber and compare the resulting magnetic field maps with numerical models to characterize the thruster’s magnetic field and inform its continued development.

I am participating in SuperUROP because I want to become a more confident and independent experimental researcher while exploring my interest in space propulsion. This project allows me to take a diagnostic from design and fabrication through testing and data analysis. I hope to gain a deeper understanding of electric propulsion while developing research skills that I can apply to future aerospace projects.