Plasmas
Plasma is a state of matter that consists of a gas of ions, neutral atoms, and free electrons, in which the electrons are not bound to atoms or molecules. Plasmas are often created by heating a gas until the electrons are stripped from their atoms, or by subjecting a gas to a strong electromagnetic field, such as a radio frequency (RF) field. Plasmas have unique properties compared to other states of matter, such as the ability to conduct electricity and respond strongly to magnetic fields. In space and astronautical engineering, plasmas are important for a variety of applications, including propulsion, energy generation, and materials processing. Plasma thrusters, for example, use electric and magnetic fields to accelerate plasma and generate thrust, making them an efficient and lightweight option for spacecraft propulsion. Plasmas are also used in fusion reactors, which aim to replicate the energy production of the sun by fusing atomic nuclei together.
Your Previous Searches
Random Picks
- Energy Density: Energy density is the amount of energy stored in a given system or region per unit volume or mass. In the context of space and astronautical engineering, energy density is a crucial factor in determining the efficiency and performance of va ... Read More >>
- Team Dynamics: Team Dynamics in space and astronautical engineering refer to the interactions and relationships between team members working on a project or mission. It involves understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each team member, effective com ... Read More >>
- Satellite Safety: Satellite safety refers to the measures taken to ensure the safe and reliable operation of satellites in orbit. This includes the design, construction, and testing of satellites to withstand the harsh environment of space, as well as the de ... Read More >>
Top News
Check out this interactive map of the early universe, considered largest ever cr...
A team of astronomers have put together the largest, most detailed map of the universe ever created – and you can explore it now....
News Source: USA Today on 2025-06-12
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is about to totally transform astronomy...
With the ability to scan the entire southern night sky every three days, the huge Vera C. Rubin Observatory could be about to start solving the mysteries of the universe, from dark matter to Planet Ni...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-12
Trump's proposed science cuts will have huge consequences...
The universe will still be there to marvel at, despite brutal cuts set to hit NASA and the National Science Foundation's budgets. But the damage to future research will be long-lasting, says Chanda Pr...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-11
Starlink satellites are leaking radio signals that may ruin astronomy...
Our ability to study faint radio signals from when the first stars began to form is being threatened by SpaceX's Starlink satellites, which seem to be unintentionally leaking radio signals that overpo...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-09
Asteroids around Venus pose possible 'invisible threat' to Earth: Should you be ...
A swarm of large asteroids likely lurking around Venus could one day pose an "invisible threat" to Earth if left unchecked, astronomers have warned....
News Source: USA Today on 2025-06-06