In 1920, Francis Ulinski presented a type of "Starship" powered in space by electron engines (now ion engines).

"Ulinski's Spaceship" (PiP)

Harnessing solar energy through photovoltaic panels, it collected the energy in the form of electricity, and cathodes emitted an "electron gas" (plasma?), creating a small thrust more than enough for space travel. Note: See Tesla.

-Note: Due to the extraordinary similarity between this ship and its propulsion system with the one Nikola Tesla also published, the author's doubt is which of the two is the precursor. I leave this topic for later discussion and possible reader discussion.