6. Conclusion

Electric propulsion encompasses a wide range of technological solutions and systems, covering a broad spectrum in terms of size, power, thrust, specific impulse and efficiency. Electric propulsion is suitable for all types of satellite, and its features offer gains and increased vehicle capacity. Its low thrust is not the result of a physical mechanism, but of the power available on board. The advent of high-thrust electric propulsion therefore depends on our ability to improve sources.

Some technologies have been used successfully for a long time, others are more recent but are now available, and still others are in the testing and qualification phase, or still at the prototype stage. The field of electric propulsion is therefore rich, dynamic and constantly evolving. It should continue to expand as demand grows for Earth observation, science, exploitation of extraterrestrial...