New 'microthrusters' could propel small satellites: As small as a penny, these thrusters run on jets of ion beams
Friday, August 17, 2012 - 14:00
in Astronomy & Space
A penny-sized rocket thruster may soon power the smallest satellites in space. The device bears little resemblance to today’s bulky satellite engines, which are laden with valves, pipes and heavy propellant tanks.