Radio frequency AC power (at 13.56 MHz in the prototype design) is coupled into a specially shaped antenna wrapped around the chamber.
[1] In 2014, the final thruster prototype was undergoing tests at the space simulation facility dubbed "Wombat XL" located at the Australian National University (ANU) Mount Stromlo Observatory.
First, it creates an accelerating electric field without inserting unreliable components like high-voltage grids into the plasma (the only plasma-facing component is the robust plasma vessel); secondly, a neutralizer is not needed, since there are equal numbers of electrons and (singly charged) positive ions emitted.
So, with neither moving mechanical parts nor susceptibility to erosion, Charles explains, 'As long as you provide the power and the propellant you can go forever.
While a typical design could provide a 50-year life span,[citation needed] or a saving of 1,000 pounds (450 kg) of launch weight for large satellites, this type of thruster could also significantly reduce the length of interplanetary space trips.