Researchers in Spain have investigated the potential of using electric propulsion to send spacecraft to Mars, uncovering significant advantages over traditional chemical propulsion. While chemical rockets are currently favored for their speed in reaching the red planet, they are also notably more costly due to the large amount of fuel required. Electric propulsion offers a more efficient, though slower, alternative that could prove beneficial for uncrewed missions.
Benefits of Electric Propulsion for Space Travel
Compared to chemical rockets, electric propulsion systems need a substantially smaller proportion of their launch mass for fuel, making them highly efficient in space. A typical chemical rocket uses 70-90% of its mass for fuel, whereas electric propulsion requires only 10-40%. However, electric systems generate far less thrust, resulting in slower travel speeds, which might be acceptable for missions without human crews.
Comparing Propulsion Systems for Mars Orbit
Previous studies have shown that missions relying on electric propulsion could significantly reduce mass requirements compared to chemical rockets. Focusing on a mission to place a 2000 kg spacecraft into Mars’ orbit, researchers considered various electric propulsion systems and identified the BHT-6000 Hall Effect thruster as suitable due to its higher thrust capabilities.
Upon modeling the gravitational forces along the chosen trajectory and comparing simulations of missions using standard chemical propellants and the BHT-6000, researchers confirmed the expected benefits of electric propulsion. Although slower, with an electrically propelled mission taking roughly 3.2 years to reach Mars compared to less than a year for a chemical rocket, the mass savings could lead to nearly $30 million in cost reductions at current launch prices.
The potential cost savings make electric propulsion a compelling option for space agencies operating under tight budgets. Even though no current deep space missions employ electric propulsion as the primary system, the technology‘s continued advancement suggests it will become increasingly popular for future uncrewed ventures to Mars and beyond.
