An overview of recent research findings on space applications of nuclear magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power for generation of multi electric thrust at thousands of seconds of specific impulse is presented. The high operating temperatures of the nuclear MHD system and potential for direct coupling of the output power to the electric thruster system are characterizing features that allow for design of ultracompact and ultralight nuclear electric propulsion systems. Order of magnitude figures for some mission-critical parameters are collated from various engineering analyses. Specific mass and specific impulse values highlight the inherent benefits of further research and development investment in MHD power.
Overview of nuclear MHD power conversion for multi-megawatt electric propulsion
Space Technology and Applications International Forum - 2001 ; 2001 ; Albuquerque, New Mexico
AIP Conference Proceedings ; 552 , 1 ; 916-922
2001-02-02
7 pages
Conference paper
Electronic Resource
English
Overview of Nuclear MHD Power Conversion for Multi-Megawatt Electric Propulsion
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