Ferrofluids could be used as thrusters for satellites
US-based researchers have created a computational model of an electrospray for propelling nanosatellites through space using ferrofluids. Ferrofluids are liquids containing iron nanoparticles, which form a hedgehog structure of aligned peaks on applying magnetic field. Upon adding an electric field as well, the array of peaks emit jets of ions, which can push the spacecraft in opposite direction.