UK-25 Large Ion thruster
UK 25E Ion thruster engine originally designed for interplanetary missions, cylindrical in shape and approx. 25 cm in diameter. It produces a thrust of 200 mN or more with a high specific impulse. It is made of metal. Made by AEA technology plc, 1990.
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An ion thruster is a propellant set off by ionisation. An atom or molecule is ionised when it acquires a positive or negative charge through gaining or losing electrons. The UK 25E large ion thruster uses xenon gas as a propellant which is ionised, then accelerated in an electric field and ejected at a high speed. This causes the rocket to move in the opposite direction. This type of thruster is ideal for space missions because it is a relatively cheap engine that can function for long periods of time and needs less propellant than chemical thrusters. It is also safer to store than other chemicals as xenon is inert.
Chemical propulsion systems are also often used for interplanetary missions. Choices over which type of propulsion system are used for missions depend on several factors including but not limited to the planet or moon the probe is travelling to and the weight of the spacecraft. Engines like this ion thruster have been successfully used for decades, as demonstrated by NASA’s Deep Space 1 and Dawn Spacecraft. The technology continues to be used for space missions today.
