Space Missions & Technology
Ion Propulsion
Electric propulsion that accelerates charged particles to produce thrust.
Why it matters
Sustained low-thrust manoeuvres can enable efficient trajectory changes after launch.
Technology / in-space propulsion
Overview
Ion engines usually provide small thrust over long periods rather than the enormous force needed to launch from Earth's surface. Electrical power and propellant flow limit performance. High exhaust velocity can reduce propellant demand.
Educational reference, reviewed . This page is not a live mission-status report.
How it works
The system ionises a propellant and uses electric fields to accelerate the ions. Electrons neutralise the departing beam so the spacecraft does not accumulate an unwanted charge.
Why it matters
Sustained low-thrust manoeuvres can enable efficient trajectory changes after launch.
Key facts & specifications
Values apply only to the hardware or configuration described. Unverified measurements are omitted.
- Energy source
- Electricity
NASA · Dawn ↗ - Operating phase
- In space
NASA · Dawn ↗
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Cosmic Civilizations · original educational vector illustration
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Real-world applications
- Dawn spacecraft
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