A hybrid space nuclear reactor which can provide both electrical power and thermal propulsion has been found to have significant benefits for near term military satellites. It combines the STAR-C thermionic reactor with NERVA rocket propulsion technology. This hybrid reactor would use a W/UO2 cermet core which was developed in the nuclear rocket program of the 1960's. Both the reactor core and the thermionic converters can be tested prior to launch. The design of a 10 kWe reactor capable or producing over 1300 N of thrust is described.
Hybrid Space Nuclear Reactor Concept
Sae Technical Papers
27th Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference (1992) ; 1992
03.08.1992
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Englisch
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