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An inertial fusion propulsion scheme for solar system explorationThe paper analyzes a novel fusion scheme that combines the favorable aspects of both inertial and magnetic confinement approaches as a propulsion device for potential application in solar system exploration. An appropriate set of equations for the plasma dynamics and the magnetic nozzle is used to assess the system's propulsive capability by applying the results to a round trip mission to Mars. It is found that such a device would allow a massive vehicle to make the journey in less than five months. It is shown that catalyzed deuterium-deuterium fuel results in a somewhat poorer propulsion performance than deuterium-tritium though at a significantly lower neutron production. The velocity increment generated by this system and the corresponding trip time are in excellent agreement with the predictions of Irving and Blum (1959).
Document ID
19930029855
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Kammash, Terry
(NASA Headquarters Washington, DC United States)
Galbraith, David L.
(Michigan Univ. Ann Arbor, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1991
Publication Information
Publication: In: Space nuclear power systems; Proceedings of the 8th Symposium, Albuquerque, NM, Jan. 6-10, 1991. Pt. 2 (A93-13751 03-20)
Publisher: American Institute of Physics
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Accession Number
93A13852
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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