Ionmotorer

Ionmotorer, also known as ion propulsion or electric propulsion, are a type of spacecraft propulsion system that produces thrust by accelerating ions. Unlike chemical rockets that expel hot gas, ion thrusters use electric and magnetic fields to accelerate a propellant, typically a noble gas like xenon, to very high speeds. This high exhaust velocity allows ion thrusters to achieve a much higher specific impulse, meaning they can generate thrust more efficiently for a longer duration compared to chemical rockets.

The fundamental principle involves ionizing a propellant, then accelerating these charged particles through an electric field. Electrostatic or electromagnetic forces are used to expel the ions at high velocity. While the thrust produced by an ion motor is very small, it can be maintained for extended periods, allowing spacecraft to gradually increase their velocity over months or even years. This makes them ideal for long-duration missions, such as interplanetary travel, satellite station-keeping, and deep space exploration.

Ion thrusters have been used successfully on numerous space missions, including NASA's Deep Space 1, Dawn, and the European Space Agency's SMART-1. Their efficiency makes them a crucial technology for extending the range and capabilities of spacecraft, enabling missions that would be impractical or impossible with traditional chemical propulsion alone.