Electron beam induced real time rocket-type propulsion effect in indium metal filled indium oxide nanotubes

► Synthetic nanorocket-like behavior of indium(In)-filled In2O3 nanotubes is reported. ► Nanorocket ignited by high energy electrons inside Transmission electron microscopy. ► Low melting point In melted and vaporized selectively inside In2O3 nanotubes. ► In vapors escape through nanoscale opening and resulting in a reaction thrust force. ► In-filled nanotubes may find applications in thermally driven motion nanoactuators.