Electric and plasma propulsion have become central to contemporary deep\u2011space and Earth\u2011orbit missions, but most systems are still optimised for narrowly defined operating conditions and mission profiles.\u00a0 Dr Scott Doyle’s talk explores how we can \u201coptimise for adaptability\u201d when designing next\u2011generation plasma propulsion systems, enabling spacecraft to respond more flexibly to changing power levels, mission timelines and operational constraints.<\/p>\n
Our speaker will present current research originally developed for the recent Europhysics Conference on Atomic and Molecular Physics of Ionized Gases (ESCAMPIG<\/a>) on the design and modelling of adaptable plasma thrusters.\u00a0 The presentation will examine how key design choices (discharge configuration, propellant utilisation, magnetic topology, control strategies and thermal management) affect the ability of a system to operate efficiently over a wide range of thrust and specific impulse and to remain robust under off\u2011nominal conditions.<\/p>\n Using examples drawn from high\u2011power electric propulsion missions such as BepiColombo, the talk will discuss:<\/p>\n Design trade\u2011offs between peak performance and operational flexibility<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Strategies for extending the useful operating envelope of plasma thrusters<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Handling long\u2011duration operation, degradation and plume\u2013spacecraft interactions<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Implications for future science and exploration missions requiring adaptable propulsion<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Members and guests with an interest in advanced propulsion techniques, plasma physics and spacecraft systems engineering will be particularly interested.\u00a0 There will be ample time for questions and discussion following the main talk.<\/p>\n Speaker bio:<\/strong>\u00a0 Dr Scott J. Doyle is an Assistant Professor (Lecturer) and Head of the Plasma Science Research Group<\/a> at the University of Aberdeen.\u00a0 He is also an Interdisciplinary Fellow associated with the Centre for Energy Transition and the\u00a0Interdisciplinary Institute<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Speaker:<\/strong> Dr Scott Doyle, University of Aberdeen<\/p>\n Date:<\/strong> Thursday 1st October 2026 @ 19.00 BST<\/p>\n Venue:<\/b> BIS Headquarters, 27\/29 South Lambeth Road, Vauxhall, London, SW8 1SZ, and Online on Zoom<\/p>\n – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –<\/p>\n Join us at the BIS for an exciting in-person lecture at our London HQ, with live online access available via Zoom for those attending remotely. Whether you join us in the room or from anywhere in the world, you will be part of a dynamic and engaging event.\u00a0 Kindly\u00a0note that this event will be recorded and, by attending, you consent to being included in the recording.<\/p>\n Advance registration is required to attend. Tickets are limited, and events often fill quickly, so we encourage early booking to avoid disappointment.<\/p>\n Members and Fellows can claim their complimentary ticket by selecting \u201cBIS Member\/Fellow<\/strong>\u201d during booking, and completing the checkout process.<\/p>\n Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with your ticket and full joining instructions, including your Zoom access link. A reminder will also be sent on the day of the event.<\/p>\n Explore this and other upcoming events on our website: Events<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n
BIS Evening Lecture<\/h4>\n
Designing Next-Gen Plasma Propulsion Systems: Optimising for Adaptability<\/h4>\n