Cathodeless Electric Propulsion Thruster for VLEO Applications

Ongoing projects

[2025–ongoing]

IQM is leading the development of a cathodeless electric propulsion (EP) thruster under ESA funding, aimed at removing the need for external neutralisers in atmosphere-breathing systems. The goal is to design, manufacture, and test a prototype thruster capable of stable operation with Earth's atmospheric gases (N₂/O₂ mixtures), achieving at least 50% electrical efficiency and a minimum specific impulse of 4200 s. This activity builds on feasibility studies and technology trade-offs carried out at IQM, which identified the most promising concepts for cathodeless EP operation in reactive, oxygen-rich environments. A prototype is now under construction, with testing planned in vacuum facilities capable of reproducing Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) conditions.

Contract number: 4000147591/25/UK/AL, Cathodeless Electric Propulsion Thruster.
Key publications:
  • Smirnova, M., Mingo, A., Smirnov, P., Pessina, V., and Schein, J. “Atmosphere-Breathing Electric Propulsion in Earth and Mars Orbits: Basic Feasibility Studies and the Case for Radio-Frequency Ion Thrusters.” IEPC-2025-499, 39th International Electric Propulsion Conference, Imperial College London, UK, 14–19 Sept. 2025. LINK PDF
  • Pessina, V., Smirnova, M., & Schein, J. (2024). Numerical framework for the development of atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion for Earth and Mars atmosphere. Journal of Electric Propulsion, 3. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44205-024-00090-1
  • Smirnova, M., Mingo, A., Smirnov, P., & Pessina, V. (2024, June 23–28). Radio Frequency Atmosphere Breathing Ion Engine development (IEPC-2024-499). Paper presented at the 38th International Electric Propulsion Conference, Pierre Baudis Convention Center, Toulouse, France. PDF