microwave propulsion

Microwave propulsion uses microwave energy—similar to the signals from your microwave oven—to generate thrust for spacecraft. In this system, microwaves are transmitted from a ground station to a spacecraft equipped with a specialized receiver. The receiver converts the microwave energy into electrical power, which then heats a propellant or drives an engine, producing thrust by expelling mass at high speed. This method can provide continuous, efficient propulsion without carrying large amounts of fuel, enabling longer and more flexible space missions. It leverages wireless energy transfer to propel spacecraft effectively, potentially reducing launch costs and expanding deep space exploration capabilities.