Ion-Powered Space Probe

The probe as payload on top of the Z-MAP Satellite launcher on the launch pad

The probe in an orbit around Kerbin

The Ion-Powered Space Probe is a stock probe which utilise the PB-ION Electric Propulsion System.

This probe requires a launcher to get into orbit, as the ion engine doesn't provide enough thrust. The Z-MAP Satellite launcher is capable to bring this probe into orbit.

To power all electric systems including the engine two PB-NUK Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators are mounted on the left and right side. They are buffered by four Z-100 Rechargable Battery Packs. As the generators aboard doesn't generate enough electricity and additionally some is needed to run the command module, the ion engine can only run with up to 10% of it's maximal thrust. This limits the maximum force applied by the engine to about 50 N or completely dry an acceleration about 0.08 m/s².

The probe is equipped with two sensors: A 2HOT Thermometer and a Double-C Seismic Accelerometer.