Atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) is a key enabling technology for sustained operations in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), where continuous drag compensation is required. System-level constraints imposed by limited mass flow, variable atmospheric composition, and power–drag coupling severely restrict the range of viable propulsion technologies. Previous assessments have identified gridded ion engines (GIEs) as the only class capable of meeting the required exhaust velocity and efficiency under realistic intake conditions; however, their reliance on external neutralisation represents a critical limitation for ABEP systems. This paper presents the concept development of a cathodeless, inductively coupled, gridded ion engine based on beam-switching operation, enabling the simultaneous extraction of positive and negative charge carriers without a dedicated neutraliser. A design methodology linking VLEO environmental conditions to thruster requirements is outlined, followed by the development of a representative thruster architecture and a downscaled demonstrator. Performance is assessed through modelling, which indicates the feasibility of drag compensation under relevant VLEO conditions.      «

Atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) is a key enabling technology for sustained operations in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), where continuous drag compensation is required. System-level constraints imposed by limited mass flow, variable atmospheric composition, and power–drag coupling severely restrict the range of viable propulsion technologies. Previous assessments have identified gridded ion engines (GIEs) as the only class capable of meeting the required exhaust velocity and efficie...     »