Revolutionizing Space Travel: NASA's New Thruster Aims for the Moon and Beyond

By Ivan PetrenkoMay 4, 2024 12:30 PMNews
Share:
Photo of outer space
Photo of outer space. Source: unsplash

As space exploration advances, the demand for more efficient and powerful propulsion systems grows. NASA's recent development of a new ion thruster, the H71M sub-kilowatt Hall-effect thruster, marks a significant breakthrough in space travel technology. This new engine, designed to achieve escape velocity and enable interplanetary missions, could revolutionize how we explore space.

From the Drawing Board to the Stars

The history of ion thrusters dates back over a century, but their full potential is only now being realized. Traditional chemical rockets have captivated public imagination with their dramatic launches, but ion thrusters like the H71M are the unsung heroes. These engines offer a more efficient way to maneuver satellites and extend their operational life, crucial for the next generation of space missions.

Enhancing Satellite Operations

The H71M thruster, derived from technology developed for NASA's upcoming lunar space station, represents a significant upgrade over traditional ion engines. While typical commercial ion thrusters use only about 10% of a spacecraft’s initial mass in propellant, the H71M utilizes 30%. This allows for extended operation up to 15,000 hours, making it ideal for longer and more complex missions.

Broadening Horizons

NASA's new thruster could enable small spacecraft to travel independently from low-Earth orbit to the Moon, or even make the journey from geosynchronous transfer orbit to Mars. This capability opens up a realm of possibilities for more frequent and cost-effective lunar and Martian missions, increasing the cadence of exploration and scientific discovery.

Commercial Applications and Beyond

SpaceLogistics, a subsidiary of Northrop Grumman, is set to be among the first to adopt this groundbreaking technology. Their Mission Extension Pod, equipped with NGHT-1X Hall-effect thrusters based on the H71M, will help extend the life of satellites in geosynchronous Earth orbit. This application demonstrates the thruster’s versatility and its potential to impact various aspects of space operations.

A New Era in Space Exploration

The introduction of the H71M thruster is not just a technological achievement; it's a stepping stone to the future of interplanetary travel. With this advanced propulsion system, missions that once seemed beyond our reach are now within grasp, heralding a new era of exploration where the boundaries of our solar system could begin to blur.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Malaysia Airlines aircraft being loaded at the airport gate

Malaysia Airlines Reinstates Brisbane Route with Expanded Regional Access

Apr 18, 2025 23:21 PM
Aerial view of a beach on Seychelles, with turquoise waves and granite rock formations

Seychelles Launches Marine Programme for Environmentally Minded Travellers

Apr 18, 2025 21:34 PM

Maintenance Work to Impact Summer Departures at Hannover Airport

Apr 18, 2025 19:48 PM

Severe Rail Disruptions Ahead of Marathon and FA Cup

Apr 18, 2025 17:23 PM
Singapore Airlines Airbus A380 aircraft in mid-flight against a grey sky

Asia Travel Made Easier with New Airline Partnership

Apr 18, 2025 15:35 PM
Crowne Plaza hotel building under clear sky

Business Travel Gets Personal: New Hotel Perk Encourages Guests to Bring a Companion

Apr 17, 2025 23:31 PM
Emirates Airbus A380 taking off from the runway during daytime

Easter Flights Bring Seasonal Comforts for Travelers

Apr 17, 2025 20:25 PM
Two people walking with an umbrella during heavy rain on a flooded street

Weekend Weather Threatens Travel Across South West England

Apr 17, 2025 18:47 PM
Wizz Air aircraft in flight against cloudy sky

Wizz Air Expands Naples Routes with New Travel Destinations

Apr 17, 2025 16:33 PM

Maui faces water shortage amid tourist comfort

Apr 16, 2025 22:39 PM

New Direct Flight Simplifies Travel Between Munich and Dubai

Apr 16, 2025 20:42 PM
Interior view of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 with immigration area and directional signs

Changi Lounges to Expand Space and Comfort Over Two Years

Apr 16, 2025 18:24 PM
Rail workers operating heavy machinery to replace tracks during infrastructure upgrade

Train Delays Expected on Pisa to Rome Line This Summer

Apr 16, 2025 16:37 PM
Traveler with suitcase watching airplane take off at airport terminal

Antalya Airport Upgrade Enhances Travel Experience

Apr 15, 2025 16:46 PM
Dynjandi waterfall cascading down a rocky mountain in Westfjords, Iceland

Iceland’s Expanding Appeal for Nature-Loving Travellers

Apr 15, 2025 14:53 PM

Flexible Antalya Trips Now Easier from Graz

Apr 15, 2025 12:37 PM

UK Rain Warning Triggers Travel Caution for Midweek Journeys

Apr 15, 2025 10:44 AM
Ryanair plane landing at airport

Hidden Fees and Access Problems Reported on eDreams

Apr 15, 2025 08:21 AM
Passengers seated inside a city bus

Electric Buses Make Exploring Exeter Smoother for Visitors

Apr 15, 2025 06:39 AM
Munich Airport's central plaza with glass roof and modern architecture

New Munich Route Eases Access to Canadian Rockies

Apr 14, 2025 23:56 PM
Rail workers conducting track maintenance during daytime engineering works

Easter Rail Closures to Impact UK Holiday Travel

Apr 14, 2025 21:42 PM
Ryanair airplane in mid-flight against a blue sky

Expedia Adds Direct Ryanair Bookings Amid Shift in Airline Strategy

Apr 14, 2025 19:38 PM

Traveler Left Without Wheelchair After Hawaii Flight

Apr 13, 2025 21:41 PM

Winter Closure of Burgas Airport Will Impact Air Travel

Apr 13, 2025 19:34 PM
View of an empty airplane aisle from a low angle, showing rows of seats and overhead bins

Avelo Faces Backlash Over Deportation Flight Deal

Apr 12, 2025 22:49 PM
Airplane at airport gate during sunrise with ground crew preparing for departure

Quick Getaways Changing the Way Europe Travels

Apr 12, 2025 19:51 PM