System-level requirements for an operational solar electric orbital transfer vehicle
- McDonnell Douglas Aerospace, Huntington Beach, CA (United States)
The concept of using a solar electric orbital transfer vehicle (SEOTV) propulsion systems as a replacement for chemical propulsion systems has been examined on the merits of performance enhancement, economic benefit, and operability. This paper summarizes the system-level requirements for an operational SEOTV that were generated over the course of the study. The requirements provided are the result of detailed system-level trades covering complete vehicle performance, costs, and operational characteristics. Top-level requirements are defined for the SEOTV system and each of the major subsystems. Major operational requirements are also given. Results indicate that advanced, low-cost solar arrays will be required to provide the necessary economic pay-offs as will highly efficient hydrogen arcjet thruster systems. An advanced technology cryogenic propellant storage system will also be required for maximum payload capability. 20 refs.
- OSTI ID:
- 418723
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-940623-; TRN: IM9703%%133
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 30. joint propulsion conference and exhibit, Indianapolis, IN (United States), 27-29 Jun 1994; Other Information: DN: Report number AIAA Paper 94-2861; PBD: Jun 1994
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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