An Introduction to Plasma Physics and Its Space Applications (Second Edition)

An Introduction to Plasma Physics and Its Space Applications (Second Edition) Synopsis

At altitudes greater than 80km above the Earth's surface there exists a dilute plasma of electrons and positively charged particles. This environment is created by the combined effects of the fluxes of energetic particles for the Sun together with the dissociation of gas molecules by the absorption of ultraviolet radiation. Consequently there has always been significant interest in the interactions between orbiting spacecraft and this plasma environment as well as its impact on spacecraft design and engineering. This is an introductory course text on the fundamentals and applications of plasma interactions in space. It is aimed primarily at students of aerospace engineering, plasma physics, and researchers interested in the design and engineering of spacecrafts. This second edition adds two new chapters on dusty plasmas and the space-plasma environment, and revises existing content on physical models, kinetic theory, hydrodynamics, discharges and plasma propulsion in space.

Key Features:

• A short introduction to Plasma Physics principles addressed to non-specialists
• Direct connections with practical applications in Aerospace Engineering
• Practical introduction to key technologies
• Updated information of in-space plasma propulsion trends