Fully Assembled RF Helicon-based Plasma Thruster. Credit: F. RomanoA satellite engine that uses atmospheric gases as fuel shows promise in laboratory tests and modeling, but its performance on a mission remains unproven.Choosing an orbit for a satellite involves balancing benefits and drawbacks. Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), which spans roughly 100 to 450 km (62 to 280 miles) above Earth, offers several advantages. Remote sensing cameras can capture sharper images, communications and radar system...