Why Plasma Rockets Could Revolutionize Space Travel

From StarTalk.

🚀 The conversation revolves around plasma rocket propulsion as a revolutionary alternative to traditional chemical rockets. The speakers explain how plasma rockets function using magnetic energy to generate high-velocity exhaust, which allows for efficient, long-term acceleration in the vacuum of space. Although unsuitable for launch from Earth, plasma propulsion is ideal for deep-space missions or supply runs, such as those to the Moon or Mars, due to its fuel efficiency, low cost, and flexibility.

From ‘Neil & a Plasma Physicist Discuss the Future of Fusion Energy’: https://youtu.be/kf4NyRbvkmM?si=UAzRA-hLCC-_h6Vn

Get the StarTalk book, ‘To Infinity and Beyond: A Journey of Cosmic Discovery’ on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PL0NFn

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/startalkradio

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to StarTalk:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/startalkradio
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarTalk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startalk
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@neildegrassetyson