Art of Science: Xenon Plasma Accelerator (IMAGE) Princeton University, Engineering School Caption The glowing plume we see in this photo is generated by a Hall-effect thruster -- an electric propulsion technology that uses magnetic and electric fields to ionize and accelerate a propellant (in this case xenon) to produce thrust. These devices are used for a variety of space craft applications such as satellite stabilization. Photo by Jerry Ross, an associate researcher at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, courtesy of Princeton University Art of Science Competition. Credit Photo by Jerry Ross, an associate researcher at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, courtesy of Princeton University Art of Science Competition. Usage Restrictions Non-commercial use with proper attribution. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.