The primary impulse system consisted of three pairs of redundant fusion reactors, space-time driver coils, and vectored exhaust directors. All three main impulse engines were located on both Decks 2 and 3
The impulse drive is a propulsion system is used for sublight speeds. In Federation starships, the impulse drive usually consists of a fusion reactor, an accelerator-generator, a driver coil assembly and a plasma exhaust. The fusion reaction generates a highly energized plasma. This plasma, ("electro-plasma") can be employed for propulsion, or can be diverted through the EPS to the power transfer grid, via EPS conduits, so as to supply other systems. The accelerated plasma is passed through the driver coils, thereby a subspace field is generated that improves the propulsive effect.
By the 2270s, impulse was capable of reaching .8 of light speed without the warp drive even being online. (Star Trek: The Motion Picture) |
