Solar electric propulsion

Solar electric propulsion typically refers to the combination of solar cells and ion drive for propelling a spacecraft through outer space. This technology has been studied by NASA and is considered promising.

The main concept is a nexus of Solar panels on spacecraft and ion thruster. However, there are a number of other types of Electrically powered spacecraft propulsion such as the Arcjet. It may not employ an ion drive, of which there are a variety of types also.

It is also possible to generate electricity from the Sun without using photovoltaic panels, such as with solar concentrators and a Stirling engine.

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