In the aerospace context, a thruster is a device that produces a force in order to propel an object through space. Thrusters are used in a variety of aerospace applications, including spacecraft, satellites, and missiles.
There are many different types of thrusters that may be used in the aerospace industry, each with its own specific characteristics and capabilities. Some common types of thrusters include chemical thrusters, electrical thrusters, and air-breathing thrusters.
Chemical thrusters use chemical reactions to produce a force, while electrical thrusters use electricity to produce a force. Air-breathing thrusters use the surrounding air as a source of propulsion, rather than carrying their own fuel.
Thrusters may be used to provide propulsion for a variety of purposes, including adjusting the orbit of a satellite, changing the orientation of a spacecraft, and providing the main propulsion for a spacecraft or missile. Thrusters may also be used in combination with other types of propulsion systems, such as rocket engines or jet engines, to provide the necessary thrust for a given mission.