Institute of nuclear physics of the Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences in January will begin a series of experiments on the retention of plasma parameters suitable for the rocket motor. The tests will be carried out on the latest setting RESIN (Helical Open Magnetic Trap), launched in late 2018. This publication reports RIA Novosti with reference to Deputy Director of the organization of Alexander Ivanov.
The newest installation to verify a new concept of improved retention of a thermonuclear plasma in a linear magnetic systems. The source also reports that the new plasma trap will be designed for the solution of several problems, one of which – the creation of a prototype plasma space engine.
“The first experiments have shown that the effect exists. And the space motor operates, and means to reduce losses plasma. Now installed regular equipment. We are getting ready to start experiments on it in January 2019, which should fully demonstrate the possibilities,” Ivanov told reporters.
The specialist explained that the system is a technology demonstrator. In early tests of the plant, scientists were able to use it to the plasma with a sufficiently high density and temperature of 100 degrees Celsius, which corresponds to the parameters needed to create the rocket engine.
The proposed principle of operation of the fusion engine uses a new method of acceleration of plasma flows. These flows are accelerated or decelerated by the magnetic field, which gives them a spin that creates a jet thrust.
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