This manner of operation means that an ion thruster and a small mass of fuel can theoretically create a much larger delta-V than chemical rockets, perfect for long-range space missions to Mars and ...

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 ...

NASA is developing a groundbreaking spacecraft concept designed to revolutionize Mars travel. The ambitious plan involves assembling a football-field-sized spacecraft in orbit using advanced robotics.

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 ...

From outside, there’s little to suggest that this is the birthplace of a remarkable piece of technology bound for the International Space Station (ISS) in the coming months. The building is home to ...

If we achieve advanced nuclear, antimatter propulsion or other advance propulsion it would be possible to achieve near constant acceleration. This would ...

Hollow cathodes are used as part of both Hall effect and gridded ion thrusters, which are some of the most common forms of electric propulsion in use today. The operation of hollow cathodes, despite ...

Ion engines propel a spacecraft one atom at ... told Tech Insider in an email. "But the thruster can be fired for cumulated periods of time much above those of chemical spacecrafts," he wrote.

These systems are characterized by the propellant used and emission mode of the ion beam. The most common of these, field emission electric propulsion (FEEP), utilize liquid metals as its ion source ...

It has over 70,000 miles and still goes well over 100 miles on a charge, so we are gaining confidence in the longevity of lithium-ion batteries. All told, AC Propulsion has only 25 eBox vehicles ...