Space propulsion systems

Space propulsion systems are mechanisms that move spacecraft by expelling mass at high speed. They work on Newton’s third law: for every action, there's an equal and opposite reaction. Common types include chemical thrusters, which burn fuel to produce powerful bursts for quick acceleration; electric thrusters, which use electricity to ionize and accelerate particles for efficient, sustained propulsion; and solar sails, which harness sunlight’s pressure for gradual movement. These systems enable spacecraft to change orbits, travel between planets, or explore distant regions of space efficiently.