Comment by andygates
8 years ago
Ion engines have very low thrust, so they're not suitable for in-atmosphere work. In space they can apply a gentle thrust for a long time, which is useful.
8 years ago
Ion engines have very low thrust, so they're not suitable for in-atmosphere work. In space they can apply a gentle thrust for a long time, which is useful.
Ion engines also only typically ignite in a near vacuum as well. You would need HUGE voltages to do the same thing in the (main part of the) atmosphere.