New propulsion system lets satellites use Earth's atmosphere as fuel

A breakthrough in satellite propulsion technology, known as air-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP), enables satellites in very low Earth orbit (approximately 180 to 250 kilometers altitude) to use residual atmospheric gases as fuel. Unlike conventional satellites that rely on onboard propellant, ABEP systems collect, ionize, and accelerate atmospheric particles to generate thrust, eliminating the need for carrying traditional fuel. This innovation reduces launch mass, extends mission lifespans, and lowers operational costs by providing virtually unlimited propulsion as long as atmospheric particles are available to counteract orbital drag. The ABEP system, developed under the project “Cathodeless Electric Propulsion Thruster for Air-Breathing Electric Propulsion Systems” led by TransMIT GmbH and IQM with ESA funding, recently passed a key design review confirming its technical feasibility. The system features a cathodeless high-frequency ion thruster that operates efficiently in oxygen-rich atmospheric conditions without the need for a cathode assembly, a component that posed challenges in earlier