Ion Thruster

Ion Thruster


Function:	Ion thrusters are advanced thrusters that function best in zero gra...
DLC?	Vanilla

Fits small grid
Mass:	121 kg
Hitpoints:	350
Power:	-0.200 MW
Force:	14400 N
PCU:	15
Size:	1x1x2
Time to Build:	10 sec

Fits large grid
Mass:	4380 kg
Hitpoints:	7180
Power:	-3.36 MW
Force:	345600 N
PCU:	15
Size:	1x1x2
Time to Build:	40 sec

Data Controls:	[purge] (?))

Ion Thrusters use only electricity to provide propulsion to their vessels and are at their best in the vacuum of deep space. For a more compact powerful version, see Large Ion Thruster. For an overall comparision, see Ion Thrusters.

If you have purchased the Sparks of the Future Pack DLC, you can build sci-fi skinned Ion thusters with a sharper thruster flame. If you have purchased the Warfare 2 Pack DLC, you can build rectangular Ion thusters with a more serious military look. All DLC variants have the same functionality, sizes, and recipes.

Usage

Ion Thrusters provide efficient and fuel-free propulsion as long as there is a source of power on their grid. They are ideal reaction control systems for ships operating in space.

For docking and manoeuvring at slow speeds, always keep Inertial Dampers (Z key) on.

How to coast

Thrust Override controls exists for Ion Thrusters, but it would be a waste of energy to use overrides in space for anything more than short-term acceleration. Instead it's recommended to "coast" in space.

To coast in zero-gravity:

Face the target direction and hold W key to accelerate to the desired cruising speed.
Then press Z key to switch off Inertial Dampers.
Let go of W key since you don't need to accelerate any more.

Drifting in a straight line saves power in zero gravity.

Tip: When coasting long distances in space, you typically aim slightly off the target (station, ship, asteroid): This is a safety measure in case you lack the time or energy to fully decelerate and brake, so you don’t collide with the target.

How to brake while coasting

To brake, simply press Z key again to switch on Inertial Dampers. Braking takes a few seconds, so do it early enough to not hit a station or asteroid!

You brake faster with your strongest thrusters facing forward, so ships with strong rear thrusters do a "flip&burn" manoeuvre to brake faster.

Gallery

You recognise Ion thrusters by their blue flame
SOTF Patrol Bot with SciFi Ion Thrusters on an asteroid base.
SOTF Shuttle with SciFi Ion Thrusters

Construction

If you have Progression on, you must build a cockpit or Remote Control first to unlock Ion Thrusters.

Ion Thrusters require Thruster Components, which themselves need Platinum, making them expensive and tedious to craft and typically only available in mid to late game.

Recipe

Ion Thruster
Component	Large Ship/Station Required	Large Ship/Station Optional	Small Ship Required	Small Ship Optional
Thruster Components	80	—	1	—
Steel Plate	15	10	1	1
Large Steel Tube	8	—	1	—
Construction Comp.	40	20	1	1