Laser Propulsion 10-kW Thruster Test Program results

This article summarizes the results of the first-ever experimental tests of a 10-kW laser-powered rocket engine. The rocket engine used high-temperature laser-sustained plasmas to heat flows of argon and hydrogen propellants, which were then exhausted through a rocket nozzle to generate thrust. The design of the thruster and test support equipment is described in detail, followed by a summary of performance data, particularly specific impulse and thruster efficiency. Specific impulse values of up to 350 s at efficiencies near 40% were obtained using hydrogen propellant. A low-velocity stability limit for laser-sustained plasmas was also discovered, which may have important implications for the design of future laser propulsion systems.