Michael Brukardt
Papers
2
Total Citations
25
H-Index
2
About
Michael Brukardt is a leading figure in advanced electric propulsion, whose work is central to the development of the Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR). His primary research focuses on high-power plasma thrusters designed for in-space transportation beyond low Earth orbit. Brukardt’s major contribution lies in experimentally demonstrating efficient plasma production and acceleration at power levels exceeding 50 kW, as shown in his seminal 2008 paper on the VX-100 experiment. This work achieved 100% propellant utilization and ion fluxes up to 1.7×10²¹/s, proving the viability of VASIMR for demanding missions. By validating helicon discharge and ion cyclotron resonance heating (ICRH) at such high powers, he established a foundation for thrusters capable of modulating specific impulse and thrust at constant power. His research, cited over 25 times, directly supports applications like lunar robotic missions and deep-space transport. Brukardt’s achievements are notable for bridging laboratory plasma physics with practical space propulsion, offering a transformative path toward faster, more flexible interplanetary travel.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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