Russian researchers at a research institution affiliated with Moscow Aviation Institute have successfully developed the HT-1000 Hall-effect thruster. This device generates thrust through high-velocity ion ejection and can be utilized for spacecraft orbit corrections and other applications.

According to reports citing the research team, development of the HT-1000 thruster has been completed, and successful testing of the prototype has been conducted.

The thruster operates by supplying power to the propulsion system and utilizing the Hall effect - the electromotive force generated by the interaction between electric current and magnetic field in conductive materials - to ionize inert gases such as xenon or krypton, creating plasma composed of electrons and free ions. The ions are then accelerated by an electric field within the ionization chamber and ejected at high velocity through a discharge chamber. This high-speed ion stream generates the thrust necessary for spacecraft propulsion in space.

The HT-1000 thruster is designed for satellites, probes, and other spacecraft weighing at least 450 kilograms, operating in low Earth orbit with an operational lifespan of seven years. It enables precise, minute adjustments or enhancements to spacecraft orbits, facilitates proper separation of individual small spacecraft during multi-payload launches, guides spacecraft away from orbit during planned end-of-life deorbiting, and ensures predictable spacecraft operations.

Russian researchers indicate that while the HT-1000 thruster requires traditional fuel for operation, its propellant consists of inert gases, which reduces overall fuel reserves and spacecraft launch weight, increases payload capacity, and consequently lowers launch costs.

Currently, the development team is preparing qualification testing of the HT-1000 thruster based on specific user requirements. Their partner company, Russia's Orbital Technologies, has established a production facility for mass manufacturing of the thruster system.