Photo: Divtec

Diversified Technologies (DTI) is developing a new spacecraft engine powered by in-situ propellants that it claims will provide enhanced in-space maneuverability and greater payload capacity. The Atmosphere-Refueling Magnetic Induction Plasma Engine (AR-MIPE) provides high thrust at specific impulse without the need for electrodes, which the company says will extend thruster life and permit the use of low cost in-situ propellants. Diversified Technologies announced the new engine, Jan. 3.

By employing an electrodeless inductive thruster which minimizes plasma-wall interactions and by capturing and storing propellants available throughout the solar system as fuel, the AR-MIPE will be able to support long-term interplanetary exploration missions.

DTI specializes in the precision delivery of high voltage and high power for critical systems. DTI produces power converters and transmitters to meet critical needs in defense, scientific, and commercial systems.