Spacecraft Propulsion Systems
Spacecraft propulsion systems are the means by which a spacecraft is propelled through space. These systems use various methods to generate thrust, including chemical reactions, electric and magnetic fields, and nuclear reactions. Chemical propulsion systems are the most commonly used, and they work by burning fuel to create a high-velocity exhaust stream that propels the spacecraft forward. Electric propulsion systems use electric fields to accelerate charged particles, while magnetic propulsion systems use magnetic fields to accelerate a plasma. Nuclear propulsion systems use nuclear reactions to generate thrust. The choice of propulsion system depends on the mission requirements, including the distance to be traveled, the payload mass, and the desired speed. Spacecraft propulsion systems are critical to the success of any space mission, and ongoing research is focused on developing more efficient and powerful systems.
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