Why SEP matters

• Solar electric propulsion allows deep-space missions to carry more cargo and use smaller launch vehicles while reducing mission costs.

• The Solar Electric Propulsion project has developed solar arrays that are lighter, stronger, more compact and less expensive than those currently available.

• Solar electric propulsion provides such high fuel economy that it reduces the amount of propellant required on-board vehicles for deep-space missions by as much as 90 per cent.

• Solar electric propulsion will enable affordable human-crewed missions beyond low Earth orbit.