The most powerful AEPS ion engine will accelerate space exploration.
The world's most powerful electric motor for spacecraft has been successfully tested at the NASA Research Institute in Cleveland. The Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) shows a blue glow in the vacuum chamber, which is the result of the release of ionized xenon. This 12-kilowatt Hall-type ion engine will be a key element of future missions to the moon and further space exploration.
The use of electric propulsion allows spacecraft to reach high speeds, while consuming significantly less fuel compared to chemical acceleration systems. This makes AEPS an ideal choice for deep space exploration missions.
Three such engines will be installed on the Power and Propulsion Element, which is the basis for the construction of the small Gateway lunar station. This station plays an important role in the Artemis program missions aimed at preparing humanity for sending to Mars. The power and motion element will provide Gateway with energy, high-speed connectivity, and maintain a unique orbit around the Moon.
Following its recent return to the Glenn Research Center, AEPS will continue to be tested to confirm flight readiness. These tests are a crucial stage on the road to the implementation of ambitious space exploration plans.
The world's most powerful electric motor for spacecraft has been successfully tested at the NASA Research Institute in Cleveland. The Advanced Electric Propulsion System (AEPS) shows a blue glow in the vacuum chamber, which is the result of the release of ionized xenon. This 12-kilowatt Hall-type ion engine will be a key element of future missions to the moon and further space exploration.
The use of electric propulsion allows spacecraft to reach high speeds, while consuming significantly less fuel compared to chemical acceleration systems. This makes AEPS an ideal choice for deep space exploration missions.
Three such engines will be installed on the Power and Propulsion Element, which is the basis for the construction of the small Gateway lunar station. This station plays an important role in the Artemis program missions aimed at preparing humanity for sending to Mars. The power and motion element will provide Gateway with energy, high-speed connectivity, and maintain a unique orbit around the Moon.
Following its recent return to the Glenn Research Center, AEPS will continue to be tested to confirm flight readiness. These tests are a crucial stage on the road to the implementation of ambitious space exploration plans.
