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Propulsive options for a manned Mars transportation systemIn this investigation, five potential manned Mars transportation systems are compared. These options include: (1) a single vehicle, chemically propelled (CHEM) option, (2) a single vehicle, nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) option, (3) a single vehicle solar electric propulsion (SEP) option, (4) a single vehicle hybrid nuclear electric propulsion (NEP)/CHEM option, and (5) a dual vehicle option (NEP cargo spacecraft and CHEM manned vehicle). In addition to utilizing the initial vehicle weight in low-earth orbit as a measure of mission feasibility, this study addresses the major technological barriers each propulsive scenario must surpass. It is shown that instead of a single clearly superior propulsion system, each means of propulsion may be favored depending upon the specified program policy and the extent of the desired manned flight time. Furthermore, the effect which aerobraking and multiple transfer cycles have upon mission feasibility is considered.
Document ID
19890059822
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Braun, Robert D.
(Vigyan Research Associates Hampton, VA, United States)
Blersch, Donald J.
(Analytic Services, Inc. Arlington, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 14, 2013
Publication Date
July 1, 1989
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Report/Patent Number
AIAA PAPER 89-2950
Accession Number
89A47193
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NCC1-104
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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