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Radiation environment for rendezvous and docking with nuclear rocketsRadiation environment data for the NERVA engine are provided which may be utilized in estimating radiation exposures associated with various space maneuvers. Spatial distributions of neutron and gamma tissue kerma rates produced during full thrust operation of the engine are presented. Final rendezvous with an orbiting space station would be achieved subsequent to full thrust operation during a period of 10 or more hours duration in which impulse is delivered by the propellant used for removal of decay heat. Consequently, post operation radiation levels are of prime importance in estimating space station exposures. Maps of gamma kerma rates around the engine are provided for decay times of 4 and 24 hours after a representative firing. Typical decay curves illustrating the dependence of post operation kerma rates on decay time and operating history are included. Examples of the kerma distributions around the engine which result from integration over specific exposure periods are shown.
Document ID
19720009984
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Rogers, D. R.
(Aerojet Nuclear Systems Co. Sacramento, CA, United States)
Warman, E. A.
(Aerojet Nuclear Systems Co. Sacramento, CA, United States)
Lindsey, B. A.
(Aerojet Nuclear Systems Co. Sacramento, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1972
Publication Information
Publication: NASA, Washington Proc. of the Natl. Symp. on Nat. and Manmade Radiation in Space
Subject Category
Space Sciences
Accession Number
72N17634
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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