The rocket had three of its four thruster pods not working after it launched.
Its next step is to construct computer simulations of the double layer thruster, and then use these simulations in designing larger prototypes.
BBC: Glow from argon plasma. Image: LPTP, Ecole Polytechnique
Finally, a 1 kW electric radioisotope power supply running on Plutonium 238 (Pu-238) would kick in to power an ion thruster engine.
And there is also an azimuth thruster that can be swung down from the forward part of the hull if an extra push is required.
Their Helicon Double Layer Thruster uses radio waves to ionise one of the inert, or noble gases - a group which includes krypton, xenon and argon.
BBC: Glow from argon plasma. Image: LPTP, Ecole Polytechnique
Once in space, three of its four thruster pods malfunctioned.
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Hybrid Propulsion System: Wave-powered and solar energy storage with an auxiliary, vectored thruster for extra speed to address high currents, doldrums or to quickly accommodate changes in mission operations.
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Shortly after the capsule separated from its rocket, SpaceX determined three of the capsule's four thruster pods -- which it would use to reach the station -- weren't operating.
It is likely that changes in temperature as the spacecraft conducted other technology validation activities affected the flakes, and powering-up the thruster may have vaporized the remains, NASA said in a statement.
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As command pilot of the March 1966 Gemini 8 mission, the first in which one spacecraft docked with another vehicle in orbit, Armstrong showed cool composure when a malfunctioning thruster caused his two-man spacecraft to tumble end over end.
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