Ok. i’m squinting at the image, here
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Vasimr.png
the ICRH antenna, situated aft of the magnets, generates most of the heat. there is already a vacuum between the plasma and the superconducting magnets. yes, the magnet cores touch parts of the engine chassis.. is that a thermally-insulating ceramic?
i assume the magnets have low-temperature coolant running through their cases, which are also given mirror-reflective surfaces?
