Nuclear stage configuration studies for Mars missionsSeveral nuclear-propulsion stage configuration options for the February 2016 Mars Exploration Initiative mission are examined. Special attention is given to the 75,000-lb-thrust nuclear engine used for the major propulsive maneuvers. The reference mission, which will last 435 days, with the stay on Mars for 30 days, assumes that the nuclear thermal rocket (NTR) engine delivers a specific impulse of 925 sec with an engine thrust-to-weight ratio of 4. Results are given of trade studies performed on the NTR engine thrust level, engine thrust-to-weight ratio, and engine Isp. Attention is also given to the Mars transfer vehicle, the Mars transportation system (MTS), the MTS crew compartment, and the MTS tanks.
Document ID
19910025526
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Emrich, W. J., Jr. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Young, A. C. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Mulqueen, J. A. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)