Justin Little
Assistant Professor

PhD, Princeton University
MA, Princeton University
BS, University of California, Irvine
 

Justin is the founder and director of the UW SPACE Lab. His research methods combine reduced-order theoretical modeling and innovative experiment design to explore the plasma physics fundamental to electric thrusters. The ultimate goal of his research is to improve the efficiency and capabilities of next-generation electric propulsion systems.

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Arvindh Sharma
PhD Student
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MS, University of Cincinnati
BE, Anna University

Arvindh is working on characterizing the evolution of dynamic structures in a Pulsed Inductive Thruster plasma. He comes from a background in fluids and combustion research and plans to apply image processing techniques to the study of plasma physics. His goal is to contribute to the development of space propulsion systems for long-term space exploration.

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Evan Dicker
PhD Student

BS, California Institute of Technology

Evan’s research focuses on investigating anomalous electron transport in Magnetically Shielded Hall Thrusters to characterize the impact of high frequency plasma oscillations on performance characteristics. His work will utilize a combination of experimental and simulated modeling techniques to elucidate the physical mechanisms of this thrust-limiting phenomenon. 

Hannah Shipman
MS Student

BS, Portland State University
BA, Portland State University

Hannah's research focuses on improved diagnostics to be implemented on the lab's ACME Hall thruster. She is currently working on a fast-reciprocating probe system which will present minimal disturbances to the internal plasma while allowing for better characterization of the thruster's overall performance.

Curtis Promislow
PhD Student

MS, North Carolina State University
BS, North Carolina State University

 

Curtis is working on the High Pulse Rate planar Pulsed Inductive Thruster project, which investigates the effects of high pulse rate operation on the design, physics, and performance of planar pulsed inductive thrusters. His research combines power electronics and circuit design, plasma physics, and advanced plasma diagnostics. As part of this project, Curtis collaborates closely with the Propulsion Research and Development Laboratory at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center.

Landon Bevier
PhD Student
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BS, University of Washington
BA, University of Washington

Landon’s research focuses on developing our understanding of plasma chemical reactions in molecular propellant EP devices.  This work is done both experimentally with the use of a Helicon plasma source as well as theoretically by way of simulated molecular plasma models. 

Richard Schure
MS Student

BS, University of Washington

Richard’s research focuses on Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) planar patch antenna design. By moving the antenna out of the plasma and into a shielded region the lifetime of the ECR thruster will be greatly enhanced. Richard is also interested in exploring methods that will enhance the efficiency of the ECR thruster by developing a robust simulation workspace in ANSYS HFSS and designing a swappable mounting system for iterative physical antenna testing.

Bennett Diamond
Research Engineer

MS, University of Washington

Bennett designs, builds, tests, and supports various SPACE Lab projects through his background in fusion plasmas and aerospace engineering. He likes clouds and trains.

Peter Thoreau
PhD Student
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MS, University of Washington
MSc, International Space University
BE, University of Queensland
BSc, University of Queensland

Peter is researching Magnetically Shielded Hall Thrusters. His research covers plasma lensing and novel operation of the SPACE Lab low power Hall thruster. He has designed and built the thruster along with diagnostics for the lab including a thrust stand and Faraday probe array. His previous experience in the use of disruptive technologies to rapidly developed space hardware has resulted in several launched payloads to the ISS and LEO.

Patrick Rae
PhD Student

BS, University of Washington

Traditional electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) thrusters have experienced lifetime limitations from antenna erosion which have prevented their use in space. Patrick is developing a shielded antenna ECR to expand the future possibilities for ECR thruster implementation.

Connie Phung
MS Student

BS, Columbia University

Hall thruster lifespan is currently limited by the durability of the inner pole. Connie is exploring the feasibility of an in-situ method of measuring inner pole erosion on magnetically shielded hall thrusters. This would enable erosion characterization in active thruster environments, minimizing disruptions and diagnostic turnaround during test campaigns.

Shane Murray
Research Engineer

MS, University of Washington
BS, Loyola Marymount University

Shane comes from a background of working with fusion plasmas.  He is interested in the capabilities of electric propulsion for expanded space exploration. His role involves building and testing diagnostics for the lab.