An asymmetrical capacitor system is provided which creates a thrust force.
The system is adapted for use in space applications and includes a
capacitor device provided with a first conductive element and a second
conductive element axially spaced from the first conductive element and of
smaller axial extent. A shroud supplied with gas surrounds the capacitor
device. The second conductive element can be a wire ring or mesh mounted
on dielectric support posts affixed to a dielectric member which separates
the conductive elements or a wire or mesh annulus surrounding a
barrel-shaped dielectric member on which the first element is also
mounted. A high voltage source is connected across the conductive elements
and applies a high voltage to the conductive elements of sufficient value
to create a thrust force on the system inducing movement thereof.
