Micro-cathode matrix arc thrusters

A method of generating thrust by a matrix thruster having conductive plate with an opening, a plurality of wires within the opening, a power supply electrically connected to the conductive plate or each of the plurality of wires via an inductor, and an electrical switch, the method comprising:

• operating the electrical switch to create a current change;
• creating an electric potential spike, by the current change, across the inductor;
• initiating an arc discharge, by the electric potential spike across the inductor the conductive plate and one or more wires of the plurality of wires;
• forming plasma, by the arc discharge, and ejecting cathode particles from the matrix thruster.

A matrix thruster, comprising:

• a conductive plate with an opening;
• a plurality of wires within the opening;
• and
• an electrical switch that initiates an arc discharge between the conductive plate and one or more wires of the plurality of wires, the arc discharge forming plasma that ejects cathode particles from the matrix thruster,
• wherein the plurality of wires are arranged proximate each other such that an arc discharge between the conductive plate and a first wire of the plurality of wires generates an inter-electrode film that facilitates plasma formation at a second wire of the plurality of wires.