Communication through Plasma (HyPASS/ReCOMM)
Motivation
- Plasma generated around a vehicle traveling at hypersonic velocities can be a significant impediment to fixed frequency communications.
- EDA is currently pursuing two methods to improve signal communication through a plasma:
- Localized plasma density reduction
- Real-time antenna matching to the surrounding plasma
Approach
- Use combination of plasma diagnostics and antenna matching technology to dynamically match the vehicle antenna to the changing local plasma environment.
- Use the application of electric and magnetic fields to reduce the plasma density over the antenna.
- Both approaches can be used in combination to achieve a better solution than either technology alone.
Results
- Density Reduction of up to 80% of initial value
- Estimated 5-10 dB signal improvement with antenna matching as well as providing plasma diagnostics
