Ceramic material has been selected for the construction of the magneto plasma dynamic electric propulsion system which Boeing will develop as part of NASA's Project Constellation.
The material is needed to ensure the engine can withstand its high-temperature ionising environment. The extent of its use will be a focus for an engine design study set for this year. The engine would propel cargo vehicles between the orbits of the Earth, Moon and Mars for NASA's space exploration vision.
Source: Flight International
