Space technologies are experiencing a growing interest in the research and practical deployment in the form of satellites. One of the major challenges of sustainable development of space technologies is the increasing problem of significant occupancy of used Earth orbits by space debris as a result of space missions, retired satellites and debris from collisions. Therefore, the possibility of using very low Earth orbits (VLEO) is gaining interest. The lower satellites height brings many advantages. However, there is a problem of residual atmosphere hindering the satellites movement. The resulting speed reduction leads to deorbiting and to burning up in the atmosphere. VLEO satellites must therefore have constant propulsion to compensate for the drag. They can use the advantages of current ion propulsion. The disadvantage is the need to carry a propellant for plasma generation and ion extraction, and its depletion will lead to deorbiting. However, it is possible to use the residual atmosphere as a propellant. In conjunction with electricity from solar panels, such an ion propulsion will have a life exceeding the satellite's usability. This new concept of satellites electric propulsion is known as ABEP (Atmosphere Breathing Electric Propulsion). The key research challenge in this concept is the ability to create plasma at very low pressure and maintain it for the duration of the propulsion. Another research goal is to optimize ion extraction and acceleration. The project results will contribute to significant progress in space technologies at VLEO thanks to the satellites being about half the height. Namely, for example, fast internet with wide coverage or improved resolution in Earth's remote sensing of. However, the project also extends to plasma technologies, e.g. as a source for ion milling.

The project is solved within collaboration with companies Spacelab EU and PlasmaSolve. Project results have been published, e.g. DOI: 10.1088/1361-6463/ad7471.