NASA: New plasma tech will deliver huge payloads faster

Electrode-based

NASA's MHD patch technology represents a leap forward in aerospace innovation. Developed by experts at NASA's Langley Research Center in Virginia, this cutting-edge system comprises two strategically positioned electrodes on the Thermal Protection System (TPS) of aircraft or spacecraft, accompanied by an electromagnetic coil beneath the electrodes, projecting a magnetic field outward. 

During hypersonic flight, the conductive ionizing atmospheric flow facilitates current flow between the electrodes. This current is then utilized to power the electromagnet, generating potent Lorentz forces that significantly enhance lift and drag forces, thereby offering precise guidance, navigation, and control for the craft.

In an alternative application, the current generated can be stored in a battery for future use. The adaptability of the MHD patch technology is further demonstrated by the ability to adjust parameters such as the size of the patch, the strength of the electromagnet, or the orientation of the magnetic field. This flexibility allows for fine-tuning of the generated forces to suit specific craft designs. Notably, multiple MHD patches can be employed on a single craft.

Experimentally verified

Through rigorous in-silico evaluations, NASA has explored the potential of the MHD patch technology on various aeroshell designs, simulating entry into planetary atmospheres. Remarkably, a 1m² MHD patch demonstrated the capability to exert forces of up to 200 kN during a simulated entry into Neptune's atmosphere, substantially increasing the lift-to-drag (L/D) ratio for the investigated aeroshell. 

This force magnitude aligns with the computed whole-body drag and lift forces for the aeroshell, indicating the technology's potential to effectively control the craft. The MHD patch technology stands as a transformative development, offering unprecedented control and adaptability in aerospace exploration and entry missions, according to the agency.

These forces augment lift and drag, providing precise control over the craft's trajectory. The system, more straightforward than traditional hypersonic craft control methods such as chemical propulsion or adjustments in flight center of gravity, also allows for energy storage for future use. NASA's innovative system not only simplifies control mechanisms but also opens up possibilities for novel entry, descent, and landing mission architectures, according to the agency. 

NASA claims that the technology has diverse applications, including guiding hypersonic aircraft, spacecraft navigation and control, power harvesting, and aerocapture in aerospace and defense.