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Hampamatta t1_j6lthgq wrote

Theoretically ion engines are the pinnacle of propulsion. Far more efficient than normal combustion engines. And doesn't satellites already use small ion engines for realignment?

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Earthfall10 t1_j6lv6wv wrote

Eh, there are other electric engine options that are better than ion engines, such as plasma engines or mass drivers. And if power isn't a limiting factor the ultimate in propellent efficiency is a photon rocket, aka a light bulb. No need to carry propellent, though you need 300 megawatts of photons to get a pathetic newton of thrust, so whatever reactor is powering it will need a shit ton of fuel. Though if you're using a laser array to push a mirrored sail that power plant can remain on the ground.

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