Author: National Academies of Sciences Engineering and Medicine
Publisher:
ISBN: 9780309684804
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :
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Book Description
Space Nuclear Propulsion for Human Mars Exploration identifies primary technical and programmatic challenges, merits, and risks for developing and demonstrating space nuclear propulsion technologies of interest to future exploration missions. This report presents key milestones and a top-level development and demonstration roadmap for performance nuclear thermal propulsion and nuclear electric propulsion systems and identifies missions that could be enabled by successful development of each technology.
Author: Scott J. McGinnis
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 118
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Book Description
Nuclear power is the next enabling technology in manned exploration of the solar system. Scientists and engineers continue to design multi-megawatt power systems, yet no power system in the 100 kilowatt, electric range has been built and flown. Technology demonstrations and studies leave a myriad of systems from which decision makers can choose to build the first manned space nuclear power system. While many subsystem engineers plan in parallel, an accurate specific mass value becomes an important design specification, which is still uncertain. This thesis goes through the design features of the manned Mars mission, its power system requirements, their design attributes as well as their design faults. Specific mass is calculated statistically as well as empirically for 1-15MWe systems. Conclusions are presented on each subsystem as well as recommendations for decision makers on where development needs to begin today in order for the mission to launch in the future.
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309180104
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 158
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Book Description
In 2003, NASA began an R&D effort to develop nuclear power and propulsion systems for solar system exploration. This activity, renamed Project Prometheus in 2004, was initiated because of the inherent limitations in photovoltaic and chemical propulsion systems in reaching many solar system objectives. To help determine appropriate missions for a nuclear power and propulsion capability, NASA asked the NRC for an independent assessment of potentially highly meritorious missions that may be enabled if space nuclear systems became operational. This report provides a series of space science objectives and missions that could be so enabled in the period beyond 2015 in the areas of astronomy and astrophysics, solar system exploration, and solar and space physics. It is based on but does not reprioritize the findings of previous NRC decadal surveys in those three areas.
Author: C. L. Dailey
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :
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Book Description
Author: United States. Congress. House. Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 420
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Book Description
Author: Bahram Nassersharif, PH D
Publisher: Independently Published
ISBN:
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 0
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Book Description
Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power: Principles, Systems, and Applications Unlock the Future of Space Exploration Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power: Principles, Systems, and Applications is a vital text for students, practitioners, and industry professionals, offering a deep exploration of space nuclear propulsion and power systems. This extensive guide provides essential knowledge for understanding and advancing technologies that will propel humanity into space. In-depth Coverage of Cutting-Edge Technologies This book examines various propulsion systems, including chemical and nuclear thermal propulsion. It details the fundamentals of rocket propulsion, combustion dynamics, nozzle design, and critical calculations. Readers gain insights into practical considerations, such as high-speed exhaust gas generation and efficiency optimization. Advanced Mathematical Formulations and Real-World Examples To ensure practical application, the book includes real-world examples and detailed mathematical formulations, such as the Tsiolkovsky rocket equation, nuclear fission, radioactivity, and neutronics. These examples help readers understand and apply principles to their studies in space nuclear systems. The structured approach, combining theory with practical examples, makes complex concepts accessible and engaging. Innovative Power Solutions for Space Missions Beyond propulsion, the book explores radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) and nuclear reactors for powering spacecraft and lunar bases. RTGs, converting heat from radioisotope decay into electricity, have powered missions like Voyager, Cassini, and New Horizons. Nuclear reactors offer high power levels for propulsion and power generation, with detailed coverage of Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) and Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP). NTP systems use a nuclear reactor to heat hydrogen, producing thrust, while NEP systems generate electricity to power electric thrusters, ideal for deep space missions. Powering Lunar Bases and Mars Missions Nuclear technologies extend beyond space travel to lunar and Mars missions. Nuclear reactors provide robust power sources for habitats, scientific experiments, and resource extraction on the Moon and Mars. These environments make solar power less viable, especially for long-duration missions. Nuclear power supports life support systems, communication, and mobility, offering sustainable energy where sunlight is insufficient. Inspiration for Future Innovators Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power is more than a textbook; it challenges readers to think critically about the future of space exploration and the role of nuclear technology. Emphasizing theory and practice integration, the book inspires curiosity and innovation, encouraging contributions to ongoing design and development in this fascinating field. Join the Journey to the Stars Whether you are a student or a seasoned professional, Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power offers valuable insights and guidance. Engage with the material, challenge presented concepts, and join the community advancing technologies that will shape space exploration's future and our understanding of the universe. Embrace the journey into the unknown and unlock the potential of space nuclear propulsion and power with this definitive text. Welcome to an exploration of technologies propelling humanity to the stars.
Author: Glenn Theodore Seaborg
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Nuclear propulsion
Languages : en
Pages : 28
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Book Description
Author: Paul A. Czysz
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 3540376410
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 488
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Book Description
An understandable perspective on the types of space propulsion systems necessary to enable low-cost space flights to Earth orbit and to the Moon and the future developments necessary for exploration of the solar system and beyond to the stars.
Author: Edward A. Jr Willis
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Nuclear propulsion
Languages : en
Pages : 36
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Book Description
A brief comparison is made between opposition class (with three impulse return), conjunction class, Venus swing-by to Mars and Mars-Venus double stopover trajectories. Vehicle configurations based on NERVA-I engines of varying life and restart capability are considered. It is found that the opposition and Venus swingby trajectories to Mars yield competitive mission performance; the double stopover entails about 30-percent penalties in initial mass and trip time; and that the minimum-weight vehicle uses a single, restartable engine.
Author: International Atomic Energy Agency
Publisher: IAEA
ISBN:
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 152
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Book Description
Provides details of a variety of radioisotope power systems, shows in what circumstances they surpass other power systems, and provides the history of the space missions in which they have been employed. The book also summarizes the use of on-board reactors and the testing done on reactor rocket thrusters.
