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Some aspects of space propulsion with extraterrestrial resourcesExtraterrestrial resources for space processing of chemicals, in general, and propellants, in particular, are explored quantitatively. It is seen that, for several candidate space mission scenarios, space processing of both space resources and earth-carried resources can make decisive differences in the mission success for a given payload. To fix ideas and demonstrate trends, the specific case of water splitting to extract oxygen, discard (or use without storage) the resulting hydrogen, and burn earth-carried noncryogenic liquid fuel(s) in a simple rocket motor, designed for periodic thrusting, is treated in some detail. Experimental hardware is assembled and demonstrated to perform adequately, besides showing compactness of the space-packaged 'capsule' module that is self-contained. Building upon previous studies, the concept of in situ propellant production (ISPP) is reexamined in light of more recent energy and materials technologies. Missions to comets and Mars Sample Return are mentioned as candidate scenarios. The mission duration, reliability-repairability of hardware, resource availability in low earth orbit (LEO), and the thrust requirements are considered in turn. It is seen that space storage of hydrogen for extended durations (5-10 years) involves problems that require detailed studies, besides involving many presently unanswered issues. A study of the energy option in LEO and in deep space is developed in simple terms. The different solar, radioisotope, and nuclear power sources are mentioned. Storage and handling of raw and processed chemicals are considered.
Document ID
19870054334
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Ramohalli, Kumar
(Arizona, University Tucson, United States)
Dowler, Warren
(Arizona Univ. Tucson, AZ, United States)
French, James
(California Institute of Technology Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, United States)
Ash, Robert
(Old Dominion University Norfolk, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1987
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets
Volume: 24
ISSN: 0022-4650
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Accession Number
87A41608
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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