ion thrusters

Ion thrusters are advanced propulsion devices that generate thrust by ionizing a propellant, such as xenon gas, and then using electric fields to accelerate the resulting charged particles (ions) at high speeds. This creates a gentle but continuous push that propels the spacecraft forward. Unlike chemical rockets, ion thrusters provide much higher efficiency and can operate for long durations, making them ideal for deep space missions. They require electrical power, often from solar panels, and produce very small thrusts, but their efficiency allows spacecraft to gradually reach high speeds over time.