The author explores the possibility of creating a spacecraft engine in which nuclear microexplosions are ignited by head-on collisions. As a result of the microexplosion the material of the target and projectile is converted into plasma. Reflection of this plasma by a magnetic mirror creates thrust. It is noted that the momentum distribution of the products of the microexplosion may be made anisotropic. The creation of such anisotropy may be required, in particular, for decreasing or completely preventing ejection of plasma in the positive x direction.
Spacecraft engine based on ignition of microexplosions by head-on collisions
Raumfahrzeugmotor mit Mikroexplosionen durch Wärmekollosionen
Technical Physics Letters ; 21 , 2 ; 155-156
1995
2 Seiten, 28 Quellen
Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)
Englisch
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