Yhn ScienceSpace Policy first seen 1 d ago, last 1 h ago, peak #9
Satellite Engine That Breathes Earth's Atmosphere Proposed
Original: New Satellite Engine Could Use Earth's Atmosphere to Stay in Orbit Indefinitely
Researchers have unveiled a concept for an air-breathing satellite engine that scoops up molecules of Earth's upper atmosphere and uses them as propellant, allowing spacecraft in very low orbit to refuel themselves and stay aloft indefinitely without carrying finite fuel. If proven, the design could enable long-lived Earth observation satellites and new very-low-orbit missions that today decay and burn up within months.
Why now: The idea of satellites propelling themselves with atmospheric air is a striking breakthrough for spaceflight, drawing wide attention.
air-breathing electric propulsionvery low Earth orbit satellites
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