ABIEs have potential applications not only in space but also in atmospheric operations, showcasing considerable benefits across a range of applications, including UAVs, high-altitude long endurance (HALE) platforms, atmospheric research, climate monitoring, emergency response and disaster management, and environmental survey and conservation efforts. By capitalising on atmospheric particles as their propellant, ABIE-powered systems attain extended mission durations, enhanced manoeuvrability, and diminished dependence on conventional fuel sources.

6.4.1 Atmospheric Applications of ABIEs

A. Aircraft Propulsion

ABIEs represent a promising alternative or supplement to conventional jet engines in aircraft, presenting notable advantages such as enhanced fuel efficiency and decreased emissions.  Moreover, by capitalising on atmospheric air, ABIEs lessen reliance on fossil fuels, thereby contributing to a more environmentally sustainable aviation sector. The extended flight endurance facilitated by ABIEs allows for longer missions without the need for frequent refuelling, a feature particularly advantageous for military aircraft and long-range flights.

B. High-Altitude Reconnaissance and Surveillance

ABIEs find application across a spectrum of tasks including surveillance and reconnaissance, environmental monitoring, and disaster assessment in remote regions.  Operations at high altitudes necessitate efficient propulsion systems capable of navigating the thin air effectively.  ABIEs offer thrust in low-density air environments where traditional engines might encounter difficulties providing extended flight duration, decreased fuel consumption, and the capability to operate at elevated altitudes.

C. Weather Monitoring

While conventional weather balloons rely solely on gas-filled envelopes for buoyancy, the integration of ABIEs would allow controlled altitude adjustments and continuous thrust aiding in the maintenance of stable altitude thus enhancing accuracy and ensuring comprehensive data acquisition.  Moreover, by reducing reliance on expendable gas and extending mission lifespans, ABIE-powered weather balloons offer a cost-effective solution for atmospheric research and monitoring endeavours.

D. Atmospheric Research 

ABIE-powered aircraft and drones present promising prospects for scientific exploration, climate research, and the collection of atmospheric data. These platforms serve as carriers for a multitude of scientific instruments, sensors, and payloads, catering to diverse research applications. With ABIEs at their core, these aircraft can sustain flights for longer periods, facilitating data collection over broader spatial and temporal scales. Additionally, the reduced fuel consumption associated with ABIEs not only diminishes operational costs but also enables prolonged research missions without the need for frequent refuelling, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of scientific endeavours in the air.

6.4.1 Space Applications of ABIEs

ABIEs present a range of advantages in space applications, including fuel efficiency, prolonged mission capabilities, and decreased operational costs, thereby enhancing the cost-effectiveness of satellite deployment and expediting constellation formation. These versatile engines can function as either primary or auxiliary propulsion systems for spacecraft, providing continuous thrust and manoeuvring capabilities essential for various mission requirements.  By extending mission and providing precise trajectory adjustments, ABIEs can play a pivotal role in space debris mitigation efforts by enabling accurate orbital manoeuvres and controlled deorbiting manoeuvres repeatedly without the need for refuelling, contributing significantly to the sustainability of space operations.