Can we observe magnetic reconnection in hall effect thruster

Can we observe magnetic reconnection in hall effect thruster satellites?

Solution

Yes it is observed.

Magnetic reconnection is the dominant process for dissipating magnetic energy in the universe. The Hall Effect thruster is a rocket engine that accelerates ions to produce thrust. The device has a fuel efficiency that is over 10 times that of a chemical rocket, which means less fuel is required to make the same propulsive maneuver. The Hall Effect thruster is currently used to maintain orbits of both commercial and military satellites, as well as provide primary propulsion for orbit transfer to destinations beyond Earth orbit

First, the energetic charged particles coming from these “solar storms” can damage satellites. In our modern world, this is a major issue. Satellites are used for communication, cell phone service,GPS, and so on. Another way satellites can be affected is that they are carefully placed in particular orbits, but the material from the Sun can increase friction (drag) and cause them to go out of these designed orbits.