To Mars in a Month – Russian Scientists Test Unique Plasma Engine

Specialists from the state corporation Rosatom have developed and built a laboratory prototype of a unique engine. The invention will help to make significant progress in the exploration of deep space.


The unit is based on a magnetoplasma accelerator capable of accelerating particles to 100 km/sec. In addition to the dynamic performance, the invention is also impressive in its efficiency compared to traditional chemical engines.

According to the press service of the scientific division of the domestic corporation, the new power plant is capable of operating in a pulse-periodic mode at an average power of 300 kW. Peak values ​​allow spacecraft to accelerate to speeds that were previously unattainable.


Another important advantage of the power plant is the reduction of fuel consumption by tens of times. The combination of these two characteristics opens up new prospects for long-term flights within the Solar System, and in the future – beyond its borders.

According to preliminary calculations by Russian scientists, the use of a plasma engine will reduce the flight time, for example, to Mars to 30-60 days. The previous record value is in the range of 9-12 months.

Such a significant change in transportation time will reduce the risks for astronauts. This is largely due to the effects of radiation, as well as prolonged exposure to weightlessness.

The presented prototype of the engine uses hydrogen as a working fluid. The energy source, in turn, is an onboard nuclear reactor.


Charged particles are accelerated by an electromagnetic field. Thanks to this approach, the power plant develops a higher flow rate of the working substance compared to traditional chemical schemes.

Another significant difference from classic engines is the lack of need for strong heating of the plasma. This advantage reduces the risk of temperature overloads on parts and units, which makes the invention more reliable.

The project is in the active development phase. Engineers have already prepared a prototype and are testing the engine in a pulse-periodic mode. An experimental ground test stand has been created for these purposes.

The latter includes a chamber 14 m long and 4 m in diameter. The complex includes a high-performance vacuum pumping and heat removal system, which allows simulating the conditions of outer space.


Plasma engines are planned to be used on "nuclear tugs". Such ships are designed to transport cargo between the planets of the Solar System.

The devices will be launched into orbit in the traditional way using launch vehicles. After reaching the required altitude, plasma engines are switched on for further acceleration and maneuvering.

At the current stage of development, the prototype “produces” a thrust of 6N – the maximum possible value among all existing projects. The appearance of the first flight model is expected by 2030.