In response to a request by NASA Code SD Deep Space Exploration Technology Program, NASA Glenn Research center performed a study to identify advanced technology options to perform a Pluto/Kuiper mission without depending on a 2004 Jupiter Gravity Assist, but still arriving before 2020. A concept using a direct trajectory with small, sub-kilowatt ion thrusters and Stirling radioisotope power system was shown to allow the same or smaller launch vehicle class (EELV) as the chemical 2004 baseline and allow launch in any year and arrival in the 2014 to 2020 timeframe. With the nearly constant power available from the radioisotope power source such small ion propelled spacecraft could explore many of the outer planetary targets. Such studies are already underway. Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.
Pluto/Kuiper Missions with Advanced Electric Propulsion and Power
2001-01-01
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Pluto: King of the Kuiper Belt
Springer Verlag | 2007
|Advanced Propulsion Options for Missions to the Kuiper Belt (AAS 01-465)
British Library Conference Proceedings | 2001
|Kuiper Belt Objects Along the Pluto-Express Path
NTRS | 1997
|Kuiper Belt Objects Along the Pluto-Express Path
NTIS | 1997
|Kuiper Belt Objects Along the Pluto Express Path
NTRS | 1999
|