TAU as TaoThis paper discusses the feasibility of building and launching a truly deep-space spacecraft mission that will penetrate near interstellar space to a depth of one thousand astronomical units (TAU) within a flight time of 50 years. Particular attention is given to the mission profile and to its communications system, power system, and propulsion system. Results of experimental studies indicate that, with advanced technology, reasonable trip times can be achieved and adequate science information can be brought to earth.
Document ID
19900026612
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Lyman, P. T. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)