Extension of Hall thruster spacecraft propulsion operational range through design and propellant optimisation

About the project

Hall thrusters efficiently propel many spacecraft but offer limited thrust flexibility. This project aims to extend their operational range, from higher thrust to high fuel efficiency. Using thruster databases, optimisation, simulations, and experimental validation, you'll investigate thruster geometries and alternative propellants, including dynamic propellant switching, to improve mission adaptability.

Hall ion thrusters are the dominate type of propulsion used in space, used on the majority of spacecraft as their primary propulsion system. This includes many different spacecraft missions, from Earth observation constellations, geostationary satellites, to interplanetary missions. Thanks to their higher ion velocities, they are considerably more fuel efficient than chemical rockets, leading to more capable systems that can complete larger orbital changes than alternatives.

However, the operational range of Hall thrusters is relatively small, limited to lower thrusts than chemical propulsion systems, which is limiting the spacecraft’s ability to dynamically respond to mission changes, i.e. move quickly in response to mission changes. In this project you'll investigate extending the operational range of Hall ion thrusters, in terms of extending a given Hall thruster to operate towards a higher thrust operation, whilst still having the capability for fuel-efficient high ion velocity operation as well.

This will be completed using our database of existing Hall thrusters, investigating their operational range and capabilities, identifying particular thruster geometries (channel diameter, width, etc.), that can lead to potentially lead to greater operational range. You'll also investigate the potential of using different gaseous propellants, including the ability to switch dynamically the propellants to further extend the range as the mission scenarios requires. Work will be based on a data optimisation investigation, followed by Hall thruster simulation, and experimental testing and validation of the thruster.

Lead supervisor

• Lead supervisor: Professor Charlie Ryan Professor

Professor Charlie Ryan

• Professor Charlie Ryan: Professor

Dr Hanna Sykulska-Lawrence

• the miniaturization of scientific instrumentation for the in-situ study of planets
• the development of a miniature wideband radiometer for the in-situ study of planetary atmospheres

Entry requirements

You must have at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent , in aerospace engineering and related disciplines.

Desirable skills:

• familiarity with, or experience of, experimental design and testing
• interest in spacecraft propulsion and experimental research

Fees and funding

For candidates looking to complete a PhD or EngD full-time we offer an enhanced tax-free stipend of up to £30k per year, along with a substantial budget for research, travel, and centre activities.

CISDnS is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break or are transitioning into a new role. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance.

How to apply

Apply now

Please apply via the online portal and select:

Applications should include:

• Academic year: 2027/28
• If you will be full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Search for "complex integrated systems"
• Select either PhD or EngD – if you are unsure, select PhD
• Add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application
• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

For questions about applying, email our Doctoral College (doctoralcollege-admissions@soton.ac.uk) .

Project leader

For an initial conversation, email Professor Charlie Ryan (C.N.Ryan@soton.ac.uk) .

Research areas