3 ms·

The megaconstellations use reaction mass wheels and hall effect thrusters (Krypton in Starlink). I'm not sure any use mercury as a fuel.

• onion2k 5y ago
  You must have missed the "before it becomes common" part of the post you've replied to. No one is suggesting it's being used a lot. The ban is to stop it before it does.
  • _joel 5y ago
    But it's not even in use now, when, if it could be used as a cheaper fuel, it would. Becoming common still needs for there to be some usage, even before it becomes common.
    • simonh 5y ago
      Apollo Constellation Engine designed their propulsion systems for mega constellations to use mercury, which is what got PEER involved in this. Popular Mechanics also reported on their plans. Even if Apollo changed their minds since, that's a pretty significant 'near miss'. https://ecfsapi.fcc.gov/file/111998371507/11_19_18_FCC_complaint.pdf https://ecfsapi.fcc.gov/file/111998371507/11_19_18_FCC_compl... https://www.popularmechanics.com/space/rockets/a25242578/apollo-fusion-mercury/ https://www.popularmechanics.com/space/rockets/a25242578/apo...