Understand the fundamental basis of spaceflight with this cutting-edge guide As spacecraft engineering continues to advance, so too do the propulsion methods by which humans explore the solar system and will seek out the stars. Electric rocket propulsion has been the subject of considerable innovation and application in recent years, with thousands of electric thrusters now operating in space. For professionals in spacecraft engineering and closely related fields, this book provides critical knowledge that can alter the future of space flight. Fundamentals of Electric Propulsion offers a thorough grounding in electric propulsion for spacecraft, particularly the features and mechanisms underlying electrostatic and electromagnetic thrusters. Updated in the light of rapidly expanding knowledge, the second edition of this essential guide covers thruster principles, plasma physics, and more. It reflects the significant accomplishments by NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory in this field, and promises to be a must-own volume for spacecraft engineering professionals. Readers of the second edition of Fundamentals of Electric Propulsion readers will also find: Extensive updates to chapters covering hollow cathodes and Hall thrusters, based on recent research results New chapters covering magnetic shielding in Hall thrusters, electromagnetic propulsion, future directions in research and development, and more Figures and homework problems in each chapter to facilitate learning and retention Fundamentals of Electric Propulsion isan essential work for spacecraft engineers and researchers working in spacecraft propulsion and related fields, as well as graduate students in electric propulsion, aerospace science, and space science courses.