Optimal Trajectories for Spacecrafts with M2P2

Mini Magnetospheric Plasma Propulsion (M2P2) is a of propulsion system based upon the deflection of the ambient plasma through the deployment of a magnetic bubble surrounding the spacecraft. Although the plasma momentum is small, it is possible to obtain even some newtons of thrust through the employment of a large magnetic field. After a brief description of the dynamic model of thrust, a discussion of the performances of M2P2 in comparison with other propulsion systems is given. Results of comparisons are expressed through some test cases. [ DOI : 10.1685/CSC09304] About DOI