DEFINITION:

Includes propulsion systems and components that use electrical energy (solar or nuclear), classified according to the following major applications: (1) spacecraft onboard propulsion; (2) upper stage propulsion.

(Source: ESA TD 19B)

SUBDOMAINS:

1. Electrostatic Systems: Includes systems based on Hall-effect thrusters, gridded ion engines, field emission thrusters.
2. Electro-thermal Systems: Includes systems based on resistojets, arcjets and power-augmented catalytic thrusters.
3. Electromagnetic Systems: Includes systems based on magneto-plasma-dynamic thrusters and pulsed plasma thrusters.