A new engine developed by NASA could lead to a breakthrough in the future of space exploration. The engine defined as a microwave thruster system operates using concentrated microwaves that bounce in a small, enclosed vessel. No other source of fuel is required.
Initial testing on the engine showed that it delivered up to 50 micro-newtons of thrust. While the amount of thrust produced was small, the fact that the engine worked was a huge accomplishment. Many scientists argued that an engine using this method would be impossible. The development of this new engine could lead to a reduction in costs associated with space travel, and other scientific discoveries.
Read more about the microwave thruster system developed by NASA.