ion engine

Rocket science got a bit more science-fiction-like as RocketStar announces it has successfully demonstrated a new ion drive that incorporates nuclear fusion. It's not the sort of fusion that powers the Sun, but it does improve thrust by 50%.

Boeing announced that the two 702SP small platform satellites, called ABS-3A and EUTELSAT 115 West B, that launched on Sunday evening are sending back signals to mission control as they power towards geosynchronous orbit under ion drive.

NASA has announced an Asteroid Grand Challenge aimed at protecting the Earth while exploiting the resources of the asteroid belt.

MIT has carried out studies of ionic thrusters that indicate they are more efficient than previously thought.

NASA scientists have succeeded in improving ion engines for deep space operations.

A new ionic motor has been designed to extend the capabilities of the new breed of small satellites, opening them up for exploration and observation missions.

A new ion rocket engine could cut months off a manned trip to Mars and save hundreds of billion dollars.