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Helicon Plasma Thrusters (HPT) are electric space-powered devices based on radio frequency plasma generation, a novel space-powered electric propulsion technology that can provide an alternative to conventional motors.
This electrically powered technology could be used on various types of satellites, for small platforms in space and even, in the future, for traveling to Mars.
The EU has assigned to a consortium led by SENER Aerospace, Carlos III University and other European companies a project called HIPATIA (Helicon Plasma Thruster for In-Space Applications), to continue the development of the HPT.
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The HPT drive is equipped with an antenna that emits radio frequency waves inside a cylindrical chamber, where hot plasma is generated and a magnetic nozzle that accelerates it supersonic.
This device does not have grids, electrodes or solid nozzles, giving the device a great simplicity of operation, which avoids problems and prolongs the life of the device.
As it is an electric propulsion, this system uses less fuel than a chemical rocket motor, which allows reducing the launch costs of the satellites or, for the same price, increasing their payload capacity.
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This model could be used in future constellations of non-geostationary satellites, to provide broadband internet services with global coverage, including all those who do not currently have internet access.
And who knows if in the not too distant future it can be used in interplanetary trips, such as the trip to Mars that everyone predicts to be in this half century.
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https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-01/ucid-tua012820.php
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