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Abstract

A magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power generation system for powering an electrical system of a spacecraft using space plasma. The system includes an MHD generator and a power control unit. The MHD generator includes an MHD channel and a plasma scoop in fluid communication with the MHD channel. The MHD channel includes a channel oriented in a first direction, magnets operable to provide a magnetic field inside the channel in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and electrodes disposed inside the channel within the magnetic field in a third direction orthogonal to the first and second directions. The plasma scoop may be formed by a funnel fitted over the outer periphery of a plasma guide and is operable to direct a flow of space plasma into the channel to pass orthogonally through the magnetic field, generating electrical power output through the electrodes. The electrodes are electrically coupled to the electrical system of the spacecraft via a power control unit, which manages the electrical power output to the electrical system of the spacecraft. A method of using the system for powering an electrical system a spacecraft is also described.

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First Claim