About the project
This project will investigate how adding metal plasma can improve the performance of air-breathing plasma thrusters, with a focus on developing an optimized neutralizer-free design for Very Low Earth Orbit environments.
Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), which includes altitudes below 100 kilometres, is gaining popularity due to its potential for space missions and its role in promoting sustainability by rapidly clearing space debris. This rapid orbit decay aligns with the European Space Agency’s (ESA) goal of a zero-debris future. However, operating efficiently at these low altitudes poses significant challenges, particularly overcoming the drag caused by the spacecraft’s interaction with the atmosphere.
Traditional electric propulsion (EP) systems, such as Hall thrusters, ion thrusters, and magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters, are designed to operate in a vacuum and are limited by the size of their propellant tanks. In contrast, air-breathing plasma thrusters utilize the sparse atmosphere as a propellant, removing the need for heavy tanks. These innovative thrusters generate plasma from atmospheric air and use electric and magnetic forces to create thrust.
The study will include simulations of rarefied gas and plasma dynamics, as well as experimental testing of various thruster configurations. By adjusting electrode materials and plasma pulse duration, the research will evaluate their effects on system longevity and reliability.
This project will build upon previous ESA-supported work developing innovative micropropulsion system, Known as Cube-de-ALPS, and our current development activities through ESA’s GSTP programme.
As part of a world-leading research group, you will receive research training and learn about the broader challenges of research and innovation in the aerospace engineering sector from your peers and industry partners supporting the Department. You will also gain valuable experience in plasma and space propulsion research and be part of a team that is poised to revolutionise future space propulsion technologies.
Entry requirements
- mechanical engineering
- aerospace engineering
- chemical engineering
- applied Mathematics
Fees and funding
Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis. Apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
How to apply
- choose programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- choose ‘PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)’ on the next page
- insert the name of the supervisor Dr Min Kwan Kim in section 2 of the application form
Applications should include:
- research proposal
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 reference letters
- degree transcripts/certificates to date
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
If you have a general question, email: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk
Project leader
If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Minkwan Kim (m.k.kim@soton.ac.uk), Astronautics Research Group.
