Let’s take a look at how ion thrusters work, and some of their interesting applications in the world of spacecraft! Chemical rocket engines provide huge thrust but are thirsty when it comes to fuel.

Unlike most interplanetary probes, Dawn is not propelled by a chemical rocket engine, but by a solar-electric ion propulsion system, particularly suitable for long-distance flights. This innovative ...

The AEPS is a solar electric propulsion system that uses xenon as its propellant, much like existing ion engines. Where it differs is in the power output, which should allow it to work as the ...

of Pasadena, Calif., for the past four years, the ion rocket is likely to prove to be the Mighty Mouse of the space age. On earth it develops no more thrust than several milli-pounds (engineers ...

Scientists have figured out how to create a new ion engine that uses 100 million times less fuel than a chemical rocket ... out of the engine and create thrust (instead of being attracted back ...

Ion thrusters need a power source and an effective one if they will last more than a decade under thrust. The paper defined an ideal power plan that can output 1 kW per kg of weight. This is ...

Despite setbacks, Starfish Space coaxed a satellite rendezvous out of its first space mission — and now it's won a big Space ...

Ion propulsion is already being used to power ... has four liquid hydrogen and oxygen RS-25 rocket engines," Rob Broeren, a Boeing rocket propulsion specialist tells the BBC.