Ion drive versus chemical rocket


 
 
 
This is a simple comparison to show the difference in fuel efficiency and performance between conventional chemical rocket thrusters and ion thrusters.
 
 
 
 
Last update: 2 June 2006

 •  Looking at the Moon (http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/SMART-1/index.html)
 •  Looking at the Moon (http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/SMART-1/index.html)

More about...

 •  SMART-1 (http://www.esa.int/esaSC/120371_index_0_m.html)

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 •  Gone to the Moon... (http://www.esa.int/esaSC/SEM7AD0P4HD_exploring_0.html)
 •  Ion drives: Science fiction or science fact? (http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEM3JQXO4HD_Expanding_0.html)
 •  Let gravity assist you... (http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEMXLE0P4HD_Expanding_0.html)
 •  ESA’s SMART-1 on course on lunar landing anniversary (http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/SMART-1/SEMKRXU4QWD_0.html)

Related links

 •  Status reports (http://sci.esa.int/science-e/www/object/index.cfm?fobjectid=31517 &farchive_objecttypeid=30 &farchive_objectid=30930)