Electric Propulsion for Space Applications

Course description 

The course aims to develop advanced theoretical and experimental expertise in the field of plasma propulsion for space applications. To this end, the lectures will address, in a synergistic manner, different research areas, ranging from vacuum technologies and system design to plasma physics, experimental verification, and space qualification.

Course target

The main target audience for the Course is professionals working in the aerospace sector who wish to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in the field of electric propulsion for space applications. The Course is designed for engineers, researchers, and technical personnel interested in deepening their understanding of plasma-based propulsion systems, their operating principles, and the experimental techniques used for their characterization and development.

Training objectives 

Training objective of the Course is to develop advanced theoretical and experimental expertise in the field of plasma propulsion for space applications. From an educational perspective, the course is designed to guide participants in understanding the main plasma propulsion technologies and in acquiring the physical principles underlying their operation. The lectures will be complemented by laboratory activities aimed at demonstrating the experimental techniques used for the characterization of plasma thrusters.

Teaching methods

Participants will find an interactive and interdisciplinary learning environment that will engage them in discussions of case studies and laboratory activities. By integrating theoretical concepts with practical experience, the course will enable participants to gain a deeper understanding of space propulsion, low-temperature plasmas, vacuum technology, and the regulations applicable to the development, qualification, and integration of electric thrusters into satellite platforms. The teaching approach will also be based on interaction with researchers and professionals active in the aerospace industry, providing examples of technological development.

Course programme

The course consists of a first part of lectures delivered online and a second part held in person at the Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies and at the School’s Space Technologies Laboratory.

The online part is organized as follows:

• 4 hours of lectures on 10/09/2026 covering an introduction to electric propulsion and its applications;
• 5 hours of lectures on 11/09/2026 covering plasma physics fundamentals, types of thrusters, subsystem architecture, and propellants.

The in-person part includes:

• 7 hours of lectures on 16/09/2026 covering ion thrusters, Hall thrusters, and MPD thrusters;
• 5 hours of lectures plus 2 hours of laboratory activities on 17/09/2026 covering the development and qualification of electric thrusters and vacuum technologies;
• 4 hours of lectures plus 3 hours of laboratory activities on 18/09/2026 covering diagnostic systems for electric propulsion.

Attendance certificate

At the end of the Course the Sant’Anna School will issue a certificate of attendance.