"Revolutionary NASA Plasma Tech Cuts Hypersonic Flight Drag"
NASA's Technology Transfer Program is licensing a new form of propulsion that uses electromagnets to control the flow of plasma over aircraft and spacecraft during hypersonic flight. The concept involves electrodes embedded on the heat shield, which capture the electrical charge in the ionized gas flow outside the craft. An electromagnet beneath the heat shield can then control the flow of gas to reduce drag or steer the vehicle. This magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) system is simpler than conventional methods and enables new mission architectures for entry, descent, and landing. NASA invites companies to apply for licensing the technology.