A Remarkable New Thruster Could Achieve Escape Velocity—and Interplanetary Travel

NASA has developed a new ion thruster, the H71M, capable of achieving escape velocity and performing orbital capture maneuvers, essential for interplanetary travel. This advancement builds on technology designed for NASA's lunar space station, enabling more complex satellite missions and extended space exploration.

The H71M thruster, utilizing high-power solar electric technology, allows small spacecraft to maneuver independently from low-Earth orbit to the Moon or Mars, significantly reducing the cost and increasing the frequency of science missions. SpaceLogistics plans to incorporate this technology into their Mission Extension Pod, enhancing satellite longevity and capabilities in geosynchronous Earth orbit.