Joel Phillips
Electric Propulsion Researcher @Theta Systems
Signup · Get unlimited contacts
WORK HISTORY
Electric Propulsion Researcher @Theta Systems
During my final year at university, I am undertaking a year-long dissertation alongside Race 2 Space Founder Alistair John, David Hindley, and his team at Theta Systems. In this role, I will be looking to design, build and test a non-conventional Argon-based Hall Effect Thruster (HET). Most satellites currently in orbit use a Xenon or Krypton HET, however, the price of these fuels is skyrocketing as supplies dwindle and demand soars. Argon is far more readily available and therefore much cheaper and sustainable. However, Argon-based Hall-Effect thrusters have reduced efficiencies due to the higher ionisation energy than the fuels most commonly used (Xenon and Krypton). Adding to this, Argon also has a lighter atomic mass causing a reduction in kinetic energy per atom. This project will aim to identify, refine and incorporate cutting-edge ideas to build a non-conventional Argon-based HET. In doing this, I hope to apply and understand the collected innovations to take steps towards the scaling down of currently lab-based 100kW+ Applied Field Magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters (AF-MPDT). AF-MPDTs have been shown to operate at much higher efficiencies and thrust profiles when using Argon and are widely believed to be the answer to sustainable electric propulsion. Current AF-MPDTs require huge amounts of power to run enormous superconducting electromagnets, this power requirement is an unrealistic ask for use in space within a 10-year time frame (until spacecraft-sized fission power becomes available). Downscaling this technology to the 1-5kw power bracket allows us to utilise this more sustainable and power-efficient technology, in space, within 3-5 years. I hope to apply any knowledge I gain from building a non-conventional Argon-based HET to the downscaling of AF-MPD technology being pioneered by Theta Systems to push towards a more sustainable and efficient space industry.
EDUCATION
The University of Sheffield
Masters of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
ABOUT JOEL PHILLIPS
I am currently looking for a job in electric propulsion, space mechanisms or systems.I am a hardworking passionate engineer dedicating my life to innovation and engineering breakthroughs in any field of science. I have a lifelong passion for turning the unknown into the known through the creation of cutting-edge machines and systems. At my happiest when problem-solving and learning; I love to work with a wide range of people from different disciplines and backgrounds looking to learn and grow from any opportunity I come across.
This profile is compiled from publicly available professional sources. Unifers is not affiliated with or endorsed by LinkedIn. Request removal of this profile.