Ion thruster engine

DIY Ion Thruster — Electroplating / Corona Discharge Experiment

A functional ion thruster prototype designed for high voltage corona discharge experiments. Comes in two versions:

Version 1 Spike ring
Features a circular array of built-in printed spikes on the emitter tube. The blue ring is a breakaway support to keep spike tips sharp during printing — snap it off after. Ready to use after electroplating or conductive coating.

Version 2 Smooth ring
A clean tube end designed for aluminum foil. Stretch foil across the opening and manually cut or poke your own spikes into it for a fully adjustable emitter.

Both versions can be made conductive by:

• Electroplating with copper sulfate + graphite coating
• Aluminum foil lining
• Conductive paint

You'll need:

• A high voltage source (high voltage aliexpress module (MC-901 or similar HV module)
• 3.7–6V battery
• Wire to connect electrodes

Recommended material: PETG for better dielectric properties than PLA.