Methods of controlling solid propellant ignition, combustion, and extinguishment

A precision control solid propellant thruster comprising:

• a thruster body containing a solid propellant having an end face at which thrust is developed, said solid propellant being disposed between at least two electrodes, wherein the solid propellant ignites to produce a thrust exhaust only with the application of a specified ignition level of electrical power to the solid propellant;
• a source of electrical power in electrical communication with said at least two electrodes;
• and
• a control system to control at least one of the quantity and nature of the electrical power such that the application of the specified ignition level of electrical power is confined within a combustion region of the solid propellant near the end face such that any exothermic energy produced within the solid propellant during combustion may be utilized to expand the thrust exhaust away from the thruster.