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Preliminary survey of propulsion using chemical energy stored in the upper atmosphereRam-jet cycles that use the chemical energy of dissociated oxygen for propulsion in the ionosphere are presented. After a review of the properties and compositions of the upper atmosphere, the external drag, recombination kinetics, and aerodynamic-heating problems of an orbiting ram jet are analyzed. The study indicates that the recombination ram jet might be useful for sustaining a satellite at an altitude of about 60 miles. Atmospheric composition and recombination-rate coefficients were too uncertain for more definite conclusions. The ram jet is a marginal device even in the optimistic view.
Document ID
19930085302
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Other
Authors
Baldwin, Lionel V
Blackshear, Perry L
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1958
Report/Patent Number
NACA-TN-4267
Report Number: NACA-TN-4267
Accession Number
93R14592
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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