Replies to post #324822 on Tornado Alley (PROG)

[blackhawks]

Helicon double-layer thruster

I can hear it now, "engage helicon double-layer thrusters and deploy deflector shield".

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helicon_double-layer_thruster

Applications[edit]

The primary application for this thruster design is intended for satellite station-keeping, long term LEO to GEO orbit transfers and deep space applications. While a typical design could provide a 50-year life span,[citation needed] or a saving of 1000 lb (˜454 kg) of launch weight for large satellites, this type of thruster could also significantly reduce the length of interplanetary space trips.[4]

For example, a trip to Mars could be shortened to 3 months instead of the 8 to 9 months with conventional chemical rockets.[5]