Artist’s rendition of ESA’s air breathing satellite thruster. Photo: ESA.

The European Space Agency (ESA) has successfully tested a new kind of satellite propulsion system that uses molecules in the atmosphere to generate thrust. This is the first time Air-Breathing Electric Propulsion (ABEP) has been demonstrated in a lab. According to ESA, the concept could solve the issue of atmospheric drag on spacecraft in low-altitude orbits.

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