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U.S. Department of Energy
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High- and low-thrust propulsion systems for the space station

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6813729
The purpose of the Advanced Development program was to investigate propulsion options for the space station. Two options were investigated in detail: a high-thrust system consisting of 25 to 50 lbf gaseous oxygen/hydrogen rockets, and a low-thrust system of 0.1 lbf multipropellant resistojets. An effort is also being conducted to determine the life capability of hydrazine-fueled thrusters. During the course of this program, studies clearly identified the benefits of utilizing waste water and other fluids as propellant sources. The results of the H/O thruster test programs are presented and the plan to determine the life of hydrazine thrusters is discussed. The background required to establish a long-life resistojet is presented and the first design model is shown in detail.
Research Organization:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Cleveland, OH (USA). Lewis Research Center
OSTI ID:
6813729
Report Number(s):
N-87-14427; NASA-TM-88877; E-3285; NAS-1.15:88877; CONF-870133-4
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English