Ion propulsion is a type of spacecraft propulsion that uses ions, or charged particles, to create thrust. Instead of burning fuel like traditional rockets, ion engines generate electricity, often from solar panels, to accelerate ions and expel them at high speeds. This process produces a small but continuous thrust, allowing spacecraft to travel efficiently over long distances in space. One of the most notable examples of ion propulsion is the Dawn spacecraft, which explored the asteroid belt. By using ion propulsion, it was able to change its orbit and travel to multiple destinations, showcasing the technology's effectiveness for deep space missions.