Propulsion system for space vehicle in low earth orbit

摘要

The propulsion system for the space vehicle (10) has a leading electrode (Eav) and a rear conducting grid (gar) attached to its chassis. The leading electrode may be either a conducting plate or a grid and the rear grid comprises heated points (20) suitable to discharge electrons. The leading and rear electrodes are maintained at a potential difference by a battery (50) such that an electric field (E) is produced. This field propels ions and electrons in opposite directions. The momentum of the ions is much greater then that of the electrons and the net momentum propels the vehicle by reaction.