On: Starlink – SpaceX’s broadband internet system

[isoprophlex]

Super exciting! Ion thrusters!

I thought this was some scifi stuff, straight out of kerbal space program. But they appear to be actually viable!

[agildehaus → isoprophlex]

SpaceX actually launched the first all-electric ion propulsion satellite, ABS-3A.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ABS-3A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI0Z68Yv5Ms

[saagarjha → isoprophlex]

Ion thrusters are nothing new: they've been used in space for over 50 years.

[greedo → isoprophlex]

I wonder if they'll start using Twin Ion Engines anytime soon?

[stcredzero → greedo]

Having two will offer some redundancy. You could probably signal process the RF given off by them to get to exactly the right mechanical screaming sound. The ISS already has the right kind of segmented cupola window.