Ion thrusters are a type of electric propulsion system that generate thrust by accelerating ions. They work by ionizing a propellant, typically a noble gas like xenon, and using electric fields to propel the ions out of the engine, creating a reaction force that pushes the spacecraft forward. This technology is known for its high efficiency and ability to operate for long durations, making it ideal for deep space missions. Unlike traditional chemical rockets, which burn fuel to produce thrust, ion thrusters provide a much gentler but continuous thrust. This allows spacecraft equipped with ion thrusters, such as Dawn and BepiColombo, to achieve high speeds over time, enabling them to explore distant planets and asteroids with greater fuel efficiency.