Ion thrusters can be scaled up in power and thrust capacity
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 77/100
Multiple studies demonstrate that ion and plasma thrusters can be successfully scaled across varying power levels to increase thrust capacity.
Evidence for · 3
Characterization of a 10 W class electrospray array thruster.
2025 · cited by 1
Paper [2] demonstrates the successful scaling and operation of electrospray array thrusters across several orders of magnitude in power.
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More for · 2
Effects of applied magnetic fields on the performance of magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters.
2026 · cited by 0
Paper [4] shows that magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters can be scaled to higher power inputs and achieve substantial thrust levels.
Toward Building Sustainable Mars Infrastructure: A CO<sub>2</sub>-Breathing Plasma Thruster for Orbit Maintenance and In Situ Oxygen Generation.
2026 · cited by 0
Paper [5] reports a plasma thruster operating effectively at various power levels to deliver significant thrust.