Speaker
Description
The aim of this research is to improve the design and physics basis of a modulating-anode electron gun for future space-based electron accelerator missions. Unlike grid-controlled sources, a mod-anode introduces a separate biased electrode between the cathode and main anode, allowing direct control of the accelerating field profile. We investigate how the mod-anode potential shapes the electrostatic landscape, modifies electron emission conditions, and governs beam formation, including current rise time, emittance, and transverse focusing. Using particle tracking and electrostatic simulations, we map how mod-anode geometry, gap spacing, and bias waveform impact phase-space evolution, beam stability, and pulse structure during propagation in free space. Particular attention is given to trade-offs between high modulation depth and the increased voltage required for fast beam switching in the absence of fragile grids. The results define design windows for robust, repeatable, and strongly modulated electron beams suitable for in-orbit beam–plasma experiments, while emphasizing scalability to a range of future space platforms.
Funding Agency
Research presented in this presentation was supported by the Laboratory Directed Research and Development program of Los Alamos National Laboratory under project numbers 20240735DI and 20230341ER
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