Russia Develops Advanced Plasma Engines for Deep Space Travel
russian scientists at the Keldish Center, part of Roscosmos, have successfully developed and tested two high-power plasma engines poised to revolutionize interplanetary travel.These engines represent a significant leap forward in space propulsion technology.
The first prototype, the KM-50M, boasts a lifespan exceeding 20,000 hours and delivers impressive performance. Operating on xenon, it produces 1.5N of thrust with a specific impulse of 3800s, and on krypton, 1.6N of thrust with a specific impulse of 4200s, at a power of 50kW.Successful fire testing in 2024, including a four-engine module trial, confirms its readiness for clustered deployment.
The second prototype, the ID-750 ion engine, pushes the boundaries even further. With a power of 80kW, it achieves plasma exhaust velocities between 80 and 100 kilometers per second, varying with fuel type. Utilizing carbon composites in its acceleration system, the ID-750 is designed for an operational lifespan of over 50,000 hours. Module testing with three engines demonstrated stable and reliable performance under near-space conditions.
Both engines utilize xenon and krypton – inert gases ideal for long-duration space missions.
Crucially, powering these engines requires a compact and powerful energy source.The Keldish Center, in partnership with industry leaders, has made substantial progress in developing a system to convert heat from a nuclear reactor into electricity. This system features a high-speed turbine rotating at 60,000 rpm with contactless bearings, enabling a relatively small reactor to provide the necessary power for deep space missions.
Roscosmos believes these plasma engines will unlock new possibilities for space exploration, making interplanetary projects more commercially viable. The benefits include increased payload capacity, reduced travel times, and the potential for ambitious projects like orbital construction, lunar helium-3 extraction, and even space tourism.
