PhD Studentship: Investigation of Neutraliser-free Air-breathing Plasma Thruster

Supervisory Team: Min Kwan Kim (80%) / Alexander Wittig (20%)

PhD Supervisor: Min Kwan Kim

Project description:

Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), including altitudes below 100 kilometers, is attracting growing interest due to its potential for space missions and its role in promoting sustainability by quickly reducing space debris. This rapid orbit decay aligns with the European Space Agency’s (ESA) vision for a zero-debris future. However, using these low altitudes efficiently presents major challenges, especially overcoming the drag caused by the spacecraft's interaction with the atmosphere.

Traditional electric propulsion (EP) systems, such as Hall thrusters, ion thrusters, and magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters, are designed to operate in a vacuum and are limited by the size of their propellant tanks. In contrast, air-breathing plasma thrusters utilize the sparse atmosphere as a propellant, removing the need for heavy tanks. These innovative thrusters generate plasma from atmospheric air and use electric and magnetic forces to create thrust.

This PhD research will explore the impact of adding metal plasma to enhance the performance of air-breathing plasma thrusters, specifically aiming to optimize a neutralizer-free design for VLEO environments. The study will include simulations of rarefied gas and plasma dynamics, as well as experimental testing of various thruster configurations. By adjusting electrode materials and plasma pulse duration, the research will evaluate their effects on system longevity and reliability.

This project will build upon previous ESA-supported work developing innovative micropropulsion system, known as Cube-de-ALPS (www.southampton.ac.uk/engineering/research/projects/cubesat-de-orbit-ali-printed-propulsion-system.page), and our current development activities through ESA’s GSTP programme.

As well as carrying out research training in a world-leading research group, you will learn about the wider challenges of research and innovation within the aerospace engineering sector from both your peers and the numerous industry partners supporting the Department. In addition, you will gain invaluable experience in plasma and space propulsion research and be part of a team poised to revolutionise future space propulsion technologies.

This PhD studentship is open both to UK and EU applicants. Ideal candidates will have a first-class degree in a relevant engineering discipline (Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical, etc.) or Applied Mathematics.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Minkwan Kim, Astronautics Research Group, Email: m.k.kim@soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 2716.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 March 2025 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.  For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online, by clicking the 'Apply' button, above.

Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”.

In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Min Kwan Kim

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

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