We discuss a nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) capability that would (1) enable a class of outer solar system missions that cannot be done with radioisotope power systems and (2) significantly enhance a range of other deep-space mission concepts. NASA plans to develop Kilopower technology for lunar surface power. Kilopower can also serve as a power source for a 10-kWe NEP system; therefore, we highlight 10-kWe NEP benefits to encourage the NASA Science Mission Directorate (SMD) to advocate (as a potential beneficiary) for NASA’s plan to develop Kilopower and to motivate further 10-kWe NEP–related concept studies.


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    Titel :

    Enabling a new generation of outer solar system missions: engineering design studies for nuclear electric propulsion


    Beteiligte:

    Erscheinungsdatum :

    2020-01-30


    Medientyp :

    Preprint


    Format :

    Keine Angabe


    Sprache :

    Englisch