A satellite propulsion system and methods of operating the same include a first ionization stage and a second acceleration stage. The first ionization stage has a plasma source configured to produce an arc discharge and emit a preliminary plasma. The plasma source includes an external magnetic field configured to magnetize the arc discharge. The second acceleration stage has an accelerator positioned in series with the plasma source. The accelerator is configured to accelerate the preliminary plasma out through the accelerator, thereby creating an accelerated plasma flow. The application of an activation threshold voltage to the accelerator results in a surge in system performance parameters.