The EMDrive propulsion system would permit travel at speeds until now only seen in science fiction.
When the concept was first proposed it was considered impossible because it went against the laws of physics.
But subsequent tests - further backed up by this announcement - have shown that the idea could revolutionise space travel.
Martin Tajmar, professor and chair for Space Systems at the Dresden University of Technology confirmed that the EMDrive would work. Pictured is the first device created by Roger Sawyer
Researchers say the new drive could carry passengers and their equipment to the moon in as little as four hours.
A trip to Alpha Centauri, which would take tens of thousands of years to reach right now, could be reached in just 100 years.
The system is based on electromagnetic drive, or EMDrive, which converts electrical energy into thrust without the need for rocket fuel.