M
mstrozier06
Guest
Just a quick question. What is the theorized top speed a probe could go using an Ion Engine? I understand the thrust is about as strong as laying a piece of paper against your hand. However in space, without any resistance, this is an advantage and the craft 'slowly' accelerates.<br /><br /><br />If you created a probe that is the length of a Saturn V rocket, filled completely with Xenon, and ran it till the tank runs dry, exactly how fast will the craft travel? Will it stop at 38,000mph or greatly exceed this as the years go by??<br /><br /><br />I have a number of theories as my interests lies in plantary studies and I am highly interested in discovering methods to study Exosolar planets.<br /><br />Or just be a dreamer one. Either way <img src="/images/icons/smile.gif" /> <br /><br /><br />Thanks for the assistance