SP-100 dynamic power and lithium-propellant MPD nuclear electric propulsion technology requirements
- JPL, Pasadena, CA (United States)
- Rockwell Energy Technology Engineering Center, Canoga Park, CA (United States)
The objective of this study was to evaluate the requirements for the propulsion and power conversion systems of a nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) vehicle using an SP-100 reactor with a dynamic power conversion system, Li-propellant magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters, Li-propellant storage and feed systems, and power conditioning electronics required to convert the power output from the power system to the form needed by the thrusters. Potassium-Rankine power conversion systems have the potential for the greatest mission benefit in terms of minimum mass and volume, but they require the most development. High-current, low-voltage turboalternators are needed for the MPD thruster system envisioned here. Power processing is not expected to be a major technology driver, but development of high-current, low-voltage space- and radiation-qualified components is needed. Finally, increases in MPD thruster life would reduce mass, system complexity, and packaging constraints; similarly, higher thruster efficiencies are desirable to reduce trip time.
- OSTI ID:
- 418719
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-940101-; TRN: 97:002027
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 11. symposium on space nuclear power systems, Albuquerque, NM (United States), 9-13 Jan 1994; Other Information: PBD: 1994; Related Information: Is Part Of Symposium on space nuclear power and propulsion, proceedings. Part 3; PB: [1300] p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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