
Plasma propulsion
Plasma propulsion is a technology that uses electrically charged gas, or plasma, to create thrust for spacecraft. Unlike traditional rockets that burn fuel, plasma propulsion systems ionize a gas (such as xenon) and accelerate the ions using magnetic or electric fields. This process produces a stream of particles that pushes the spacecraft in the opposite direction, following Newton's third law of motion. Plasma propulsion is efficient and can provide continuous thrust over long periods, making it suitable for deep-space missions where speed and fuel efficiency are essential.