Summary and recommendations on nuclear electric propulsion technology for the space exploration initiative
A project in Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP) technology is being established to develop the NEP technologies needed for advanced propulsion systems. A paced approach has been suggested which calls for progressive development of NEP component and subsystem level technologies. This approach will lead to major facility testing to achieve TRL-5 for megawatt NEP for SEI mission applications. This approach is designed to validate NEP power and propulsion technologies from kilowatt class to megawatt class ratings. Such a paced approach would have the benefit of achieving the development, testing, and flight of NEP systems in an evolutionary manner. This approach may also have the additional benefit of synergistic application with SEI extraterrestrial surface nuclear power applications.
- Research Organization:
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Cleveland, OH (United States). Lewis Research Center
- OSTI ID:
- 6317437
- Report Number(s):
- N-93-24744; NASA-TM-105707; E-7783; NAS-1.15:105707; CNN: RTOP 593-72-00
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
NASA's nuclear electric propulsion technology project
28th Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit
Related Subjects
SPACE PROPULSION REACTORS
PLANNING
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
PERFORMANCE
MOBILE REACTORS
POWER REACTORS
PROPULSION REACTORS
REACTORS
SPACE POWER REACTORS
NESDPS Office of Nuclear Energy Space and Defense Power Systems
210600* - Power Reactors
Auxiliary
Mobile Package
& Transportable