How does a plasma propulsion engine work?
Electrodeless plasma thrusters use the ponderomotive force which acts on any plasma or charged particle when under the influence of a strong electromagnetic energy density gradient to accelerate plasma electrons and ions in the same direction, thereby operating without a neutralizer. All plasma rockets operate on the same type of principle: Electric fields and magnetic fields work side by side to first transform a gas – typically xenon or krypton – into plasma and then accelerate the ions in the plasma out of the engine at over 45,000 mph (72,400 kph), creating a thrust in the direction of desired .
Can plasma be used as rocket fuel?
The pulsed plasma rocket is a revolutionary new technology that is much more efficient than traditional rocket engines. It creates a plasma field that can be used to generate thrust, allowing spacecraft to travel much faster and farther than traditional rockets. Plasma engines have a much higher specific impulse (Isp) value than other types of rocket technology. Because of their fuel efficiency, plasma thrusters can save spacecraft operators millions of dollars in operating costs while increasing the value of the spacecraft’s data product.