Researchers at the University of Southampton are working on a propulsion system that could revolutionize space exploration. With the help of new technology, ships flying in deep space will be able to convert all types of metals into fuel, theoretically allowing them to travel indefinitely.
The current engine uses rare gases such as xenon or krypton as fuel, which can create enough thrust to blow the spacecraft out of the atmosphere. Although available on Earth, they cannot be obtained in space, so alternative fuels are needed.
University scientists are working on a rocket that can convert iron, aluminum and copper available in space to recharge itself during flight.
Minkwan Kim, who recently drew up plans for SpaceX's Falcon 9 plasma engine, is in charge of the project. By the way, the technology is not entirely new, as similar technologies are used in satellites, however, it is not powerful enough to launch an entire spacecraft into thin air. The project, created in collaboration with space research company Magdrive, is called Super Magdrive, and has already received 1 million pounds sterling, or nearly 500 million forints, from the British government, he writes. Sky News.
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