Study of Hall Effect Thrusters using machine-learning-aided diagnostics

Laboratoire de Physique des Plasmas (LPP) is offering to motivated candidates a PhD position with a topic on non-thermal plasmas for electric propulsion. The PhD thesis aims to experimentally characterize Hall Effect Thrusters (HET) using a combination of plasma diagnostic methods (emission and absorption spectroscopy, Langmuir probes, etc) enhanced by the application of machine learning techniques.

Context : Electric propulsion devices such as HETs (Figure 1) provide thrust by ionizing a propellant gas (commonly Xe, but also Kr and Ar) and accelerating the ions from the plasma. In HET this is achieved by a combination of a magnetic and electric field. In recent years, the rising demand of electric propulsion devices stimulates their studies and further development. The PhD topic will focus on the application of plasma diagnostic techniques that are able to capture multitude of phenomena occurring in time and space in a HET. The goal is to obtain deeper understanding of the physics of their operation, compare with results of numerical simulations and ultimately aid the development of the next generation of HETs

Work environment :

The proposed topic is part of the research in the joint laboratory for studying Hall Effect Thrusters (COMHET). COMHET unites the long-standing traditions in the development of electric propulsion systems for satellites of Safran Spacecraft Propulsion (SSP) with the academic and research experience of the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and Ecole Polytechnique, represented by the Laboratory for Plasma Physics (LPP). The proposed topic is within the pole “Intelligent diagnostics” of COMHET and is funded by CNRS. The work will be based in the premises of LPP at Ecole Polytechnique in Palaiseau with opportunities for exchange with specialists from SSP in Vernon.

Requirements The successful candidate must hold a Masters degree or equivalent and be eligible for obtaining a security clearance under the French law.

Further, one or more of the following are needed: working knowledge of plasma physics, electrical propulsion systems (ideally HET), plasma diagnostics (ideally optical and/or electrical diagnostics).

Ability to work with Python or other language for data processing and working knowledge of French are an advantage but not required.

Good command of the English language verbally and in writing is required.