An apparatus for producing a vacuum arc plasma source device using a low
mass, compact inductive energy storage circuit powered by a low voltage DC
supply acts as a vacuum arc plasma thruster. An inductor is charged
through a switch, subsequently the switch is opened and a voltage spike of
Ldi/dt is produced initiating plasma across a resistive path separating
anode and cathode. The plasma is subsequently maintained by energy stored
in the inductor. Plasma is produced from cathode material, which allows
for any electrically conductive material to be used. A planar structure, a
tubular structure, and a coaxial structure allow for consumption of
cathode material feed and thereby long lifetime of the thruster for long
durations of time.
