Chris Olsen
Papers
2
Total Citations
77
H-Index
2
About
Chris Olsen is a leading figure in advanced space propulsion, with his research centered on high-power electric thrusters—specifically the Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR). His major contributions include experimentally demonstrating that the VX-200 thruster can exceed 50% efficiency, a milestone that proves the viability of magnetoplasma propulsion for heavy-payload orbit-raising, lunar cargo missions, and faster interplanetary travel. In earlier work on the VX-100, Olsen achieved 100% propellant utilization at power levels above 50 kW, with ion fluxes reaching 1.7×10²⁰/s. These results, published in 2011 and 2008, have collectively earned over 77 citations, underscoring their influence on the field. Olsen’s achievements are notable for bridging the gap between theoretical plasma physics and practical thruster design, directly informing NASA’s roadmap for next-generation propulsion. His work remains essential reading for researchers and students interested in reducing trip times for robotic and crewed missions to the Moon, Mars, and near-Earth asteroids.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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