Evolutionary use of nuclear electric propulsionEvolving new propulsion technologies through a rational and conscious effort to minimize development costs and program risks while maximizing the performance benefits is intuitively practical. A phased approach to the evolution of nuclear electric propulsion from use on planetary probes, to lunar cargo vehicles, and finally to manned Mars missions with a concomitant growth in technology is considered. Technology levels and system component makeup are discussed for nuclear power systems and both ion and magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters. Mission scenarios are described, which include analysis of a probe to Pluto, a lunar cargo mission, Martian split, all-up, and quick-trip mission options. Evolutionary progression of the use of NEP in such missions is discussed.
Document ID
19910025551
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Hack, K. J. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
George, J. A. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Riehl, J. P. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Gilland, J. H. (Sverdrup Technology, Inc. Cleveland, OH, United States)