A set of nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) system parameters for planetary exploration missions is described. Orbiter missions to the planets Saturn, Uranus and Neptune were selected for assessment, and five delivery modes were evaluated. The NEP system envisioned for this application consisted of a nuclear fission reactor with a thermoelectric conversion system and a thrust subsystem comprised of power processors coupled with mercury ion-bombardment thrusters. The results indicate that an NEP system sized at 90-160 kW electrical power rating and operating within a specific impulse range of 4500-5500 sec provides adequate performance for outer planet exploration.
An evaluation of nuclear electric propulsion for planetary exploration missions
International Electric Propulsion Conference ; 1981 ; Las Vegas, NV, US
1981-04-01
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Advanced Solar System Exploration Missions Using Nuclear-Electric Propulsion
British Library Conference Proceedings | 1994
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