Pathfinder
An artist's concept of a space based vehicle using the Propulsive Small Expendable Deployer System (ProSEDS) to generate its thrust to maintain orbit without using a propellant. ProSEDS will obtain thrust as the current flowing through the tether experiences a drag force due to interaction with the Earth's magnetic field. Drag force is coupled mechanically to the stage via the tether, thus lowering the stage's orbital altitude.
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Details
NASA ID
9906367
Date Created
April 15, 2004
Center
MSFC
Media Type
image
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