CLOSED ELECTRON DRIFT PLASMA JET ENGINE Russian patent published in 2002 - IPC

FIELD: space vehicles. SUBSTANCE: invention can be used in electric jet plants, as stationary plasma jet engines and engines with anode layer. Proposed plasma jet engine with closed drift of electrons includes, at least one main and one standby cathode-compensator, each containing ignitor electrode, anode unit with anode, main and standby cathodes-compensators being arranged at one side of anode unit, main cathode- compensator being arranged first in direction of azimuth swirling of accelerated ions and standby cathode-compensator, as second. Geometric axis of each cathode-compensator can be located in one plane with geometric axis of engine. Ignitor electrodes and cathodes of main and standby cathodes-compensators are electrically insulated from each other. Main and standby cathodes-compensators are pneumatically insulated from each other. EFFECT: reduced erosion of standby cathode-compensator and increased efficiency in operation at long service life, increased reliability and service life of engine. 4 cl, 2 dwg