A preliminary feasibility assessment of the integration of reactor power system concepts with a projected growth space station architecture was conducted to address a variety of installation, operational disposition, and safety issues. A previous NASA sponsored study, which showed the advantages of space station - attached concepts, served as the basis for this study. A study methodology was defined and implemented to assess compatible combinations of reactor power installation concepts, disposal destinations, and propulsion methods. Three installation concepts that met a set of integration criteria were characterized from a configuration and operational viewpoint, with end-of-life disposal mass identified. Disposal destinations that met current aerospace nuclear safety criteria were identified and characterized from an operational and energy requirements viewpoint, with delta-V energy requirement as a key parameter. Chemical propulsion methods that met current and near-term application criteria were identified and payload mass and delta-V capabilities were characterized. These capabilities were matched against concept disposal mass and destination delta-V requirements to provide the feasibility of each combination.
Feasibility Assessment of Installation, Operation and Disposal Options for Nuclear Reactor Power System Concepts for a NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) Growth Space Station
1987
37 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Rocket Engines & Motors , Manned Spacecraft , Nuclear Auxiliary Power Systems , Feasibility analysis , Space power reactors , Space station power supplies , Aerospace safety , Booms (Equipment) , Chemical propulsion , Earth orbits , Hazardous material disposal (In space) , Installing , Interplanetary trajectories , Lunar landing , Space station propulsion , Tethering