Create a prototype of an efficient aircraft capable of flying with ion propulsion. This is the aim of the IPROP project, led ...
However, in The Menagerie, the computer identifies a Starfleet shuttlecraft as having ion propulsion. Either way, ion propulsion is real and NASA has toyed with it for ages and many satellites ...
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 ...
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 ...
This is currently well outside the realm of possibility, with the best ion thruster power sources coming at something like 10 ...
Another idea is electric ion propulsion. These generate thrust by accelerating ions - charged atoms or molecules - using electricity. Ion propulsion is already being used to power satellites in space.