During my doctoral research program, I decided to study issues related to hollow cathodes, which are the component of Hall effect thrusters responsible for ionizing the propellant and supporting the discharge. My research focuses on finding possible solutions to ensure a longer operational life of the cathode, as its lifespan depends on the discharge current, mass flow, erosion of the tube and electrode, and instabilities. My work is part of the research for the next generation of space missions that require a lifespan not yet supported by current cathode technology (>10 kh). Consequently, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the operation of hollow cathodes. I am involved in several European projects in which the University of Pisa is a member. During the first year of my Ph.D., I conducted research activities related to the design of a high-power cathode (CHEOPS Project) and worked on Bayesian analysis in the study of anomalous diffusivity in Hall thrusters. Additionally, I worked in a laboratory in the Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry on activities involving iodine as an alternative propellant. I also participated in two workshops (EPIC 2023 and WECM’23). During the second year of my Ph.D., I continued my work on the high-power cathode, and we are currently in the procurement phase. Furthermore, the activities with iodine have progressed, and after developing a low-power cathode, we are working now in the testing phase of the iodine cathode. During the second year I participated in two conferences: the 9th Space Propulsion Conference and the 38th International Electric Propulsion Conference, where I Presented my research activities. I chose NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) as the institution for my research period abroad during my doctorate because, as a center of excellence, it will provide me with a comprehensive experience, both technologically and personally. I will start my internship period at the beginning of July 2024. During this period abroad, I will study high-power hollow cathodes, and my commitment will be to work on methods to better understand the instabilities and production of energetic ions that erode the orifice and electrodes. In these analyses, I will use both invasive methods such as RPA probes and non-invasive techniques such as laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectroscopy, capable of acquiring statistical quantities to determine the thermodynamic state and relevant characteristics, such as temperature and velocity of the energetic ions. This approach allows for the prediction of ion behavior near the orifice to study their path and avoid energetic impacts that would erode the plate and tube walls, reducing the useful life of the cathode. During my stay at JPL, I will also conduct wear tests to understand how the evaporation rate of the insert affects the life of the cathode. From this experience, I expect to learn new methodologies to tackle laboratory problems and collect experimental data for analysis. This activity aligns with the path I have undertaken in Italy, seeking solutions to achieve longer-lasting cathodes. In Italy, I am involved in R&D projects in collaboration with ESA, such as the ESA GSTP regarding the use of iodine as an alternative propellant for powering the cathode and the H2020 Program for the design and production of a laboratory model cathode. My future goal is to gain extensive experience in the field of electric propulsion with the aim of pursuing an academic career. In conclusion, I hope that the activities in my doctoral program will provide me with the confidence and knowledge to become an expert in the field of electric propulsion, and I believe these experiences will contribute to the development of my professional and educational skills.