Space plasma power and propulsion group
Department of Nuclear Physics & Accelerator Applications
In space, no-one can hear you scream. Is this true?
Thrusters for propulsion generally require nozzles but is this necessary in the vaccum of space?


System calculations for hunter killer satellites
Space junk is a major problem for space travel. We use an energetic particle beam to manoeuvre a satellite close to junk then blast it with the particle beam to deorbit the junk


Plasma thrusters for spacecraft
Low Earth Orbit satellites such as CubeSats can have their lifetime boosted by using our unique plasma thrusters to insert them into higher orbits.
Active orbital control systems for nano-sats orbiting the Moon
Active plasma thrusters are needed for in orbit manouvers and for arranging constellations of satellites.


Particle simulation of dual frequency processing plasmas
We employ Particle in Cell simulations that are inexpensive true computer experiments to complement the use of costly industrial microchip plasma systems.


Plasma surface interactions under extreme conditions
High power ion beams can be used to replace lasers as sources for evaporated coating material. Work with industry to discover the physics.
Determining the orbital characteristics of a constellation of nano-sats orbiting the Moon
There is no lunar GPS so how will satellite orbits be determined for safety and efficiency in designing missions.


Magnetic nozzles and plasma generated by a remote source
When plasmas are decoupled from their source of power, much can be learned about non-local effects of energy transport.


Computer simulation of expanding plasmas
Experimental work on expanding plasmas is greatly aided by computer simulation using plasma fluid codes.
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