A Thrust generation model of a microwave rocket

Oda, Yasuhisa*; Shibata, Teppei*; Komurasaki, Kimiya*; Takahashi, Koji; Kasugai, Atsushi; Sakamoto, Keishi

Journal of Space Technology and Science, 22(2), p.30 - 37, 2006/00

A thrust generation model for microwave rocket was studied. The model was based on shock wave propagation driven by atmospheric plasma as analogy of pulse detonation engine (PDE). Pressure histories in the thruster were measured using pressure gauges and compared to the model. The shock wave was measured from pressure history in the thruster model. The relationship between the shock-wave traveling time and propagation distance showed good linearity. At the same time, the propagation velocity of the ionization front in the tube was also measured. The velocity is also nearly constant during the propagation. The both velocities were increased with the power density. The both the ionization front and the shock wave propagated at the same velocity when they propagated at supersonic speed. Thrust impulse was estimated from pressure history. Estimated thrust showed good agreement to the result of the flight experiment.