Interplanetary propulsion using inertial fusion
Inertial fusion can be used to power spacecraft within the solar system and beyond. Such spacecraft have the potential for short-duration manned-mission performance exceeding other technologies. We are conducting a study to assess the systems aspects of inertial fusion as applied to such missions, based on the conceptual engine design of Hyde (1983) we describe the required systems for an entirely new spacecraft design called VISTA that is based on the use of DT fuel. We give preliminary design details for the power conversion and power conditioning systems for manned missions to Mars of total duration of about 100 days. Specific mission performance results will be published elsewhere, after the study has been completed.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (USA); Rockwell International Corp., Canoga Park, CA (USA). Rocketdyne Div.; Jet Propulsion Lab., Pasadena, CA (USA); National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Houston, TX (USA). Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- OSTI ID:
- 6052981
- Report Number(s):
- UCRL-95275-Rev.1; CONF-870102-29-Rev.1; ON: DE87014342
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 4. symposium on space nuclear power systems, Albuquerque, NM, USA, 12 Jan 1987; Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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