Variants
The largest difference in the many electrostatic ion thrusters is the method of ionizing the propellant atoms - electron bombardment (NSTAR, NEXT, T5, T6), radiofrequency (rf) excitation (RIT 10, RIT 22, µN-RIT), microwave excitation (µ10, µ20). Related to this is the need of a cathode and required effort for the power supplies. Kaufman type engines require at least supplies to the cathode, anode and chamber, whereas the rf and microwave types require an additional rf generator, but no anode and cathode supplies.
In the extraction grid systems minor differences occur in the grid geometry and the materials used, which may have implications for the grid system lifetime.
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