MPD Thruster Maecker Formula Calculator

High-Power Plasma Propulsion: Calculate self-field Lorentz electromagnetic thrust ($T_{EM}$), gasdynamic thrust, critical onset current, and electrical power.

Electrical Arc & Geometry

Discharge Arc Current $J$ (kA):

Discharge Voltage $V_{arc}$ (V):

Anode Inner Radius $r_a$ (mm):

Cathode Radius $r_c$ (mm):

Propellant & Aerodynamic Contribution

Mass Flow Rate $\dot{m}$ (g/s):

Cathode Tip Factor $\xi$:

Gasdynamic (Thermal) Thrust $T_{th}$ (N):

Lorentz Thrust & Efficiency

Total Thrust ($T_{tot}$)

-- N

Lorentz $T_{EM}$: -- N

Specific Impulse ($I_{sp}$)

-- s

Exhaust Velocity: -- km/s

Arc Power ($P_{arc}$)

-- MW

Thrust/Power: -- N/MW

Thrust Efficiency ($\eta$)

-- %

EM Fraction: -- %

Maecker Formulation:

• $T_{EM} = \frac{\mu_0 J^2}{4\pi} [\ln(r_a / r_c) + \xi] = 10^{-7} \cdot J^2 [\ln(r_a / r_c) + \xi]$.

• At currents above $10$ kA, self-field Lorentz electromagnetic body force dominates over thermal expansion.

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MPD Thruster Maecker Formula Calculator

Electrical Arc & Geometry

Propellant & Aerodynamic Contribution

Lorentz Thrust & Efficiency

Frequently Asked Questions