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High-Energy Space Propulsion Based on Magnetized Target FusionMagnetized target fusion is an approach in which a magnetized target plasma is compressed inertially by an imploding material wall. A high energy plasma liner may be used to produce the required implosion. The plasma liner is formed by the merging of a number of high momentum plasma jets converging towards the center of a sphere where two compact toroids have been introduced. Preliminary 3-D hydrodynamics modeling results using the SPHINX code of Los Alamos National Laboratory have been very encouraging and confirm earlier theoretical expectations. The concept appears ready for experimental exploration and plans for doing so are being pursued. In this talk, we explore conceptually how this innovative fusion approach could be packaged for space propulsion for interplanetary travel. We discuss the generally generic components of a baseline propulsion concept including the fusion engine, high velocity plasma accelerators, generators of compact toroids using conical theta pinches, magnetic nozzle, neutron absorption blanket, tritium reprocessing system, shock absorber, magnetohydrodynamic generator, capacitor pulsed power system, thermal management system, and micrometeorite shields.
Document ID
19990097530
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Preprint (Draft being sent to journal)
Authors
Thio, Y. C. F.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Landrum, D. B.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Freeze, B.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Kirkpatrick, R. C.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Gerrish, H.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Schmidt, G. R.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)
Date Acquired
August 19, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1999
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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