A fully integrated energy-based approach to mission planning is needed if the Space Exploration Initiative (SEI) is to succeed. Such an approach would reduce the number of new systems and technologies requiring development. The resultant horizontal commonality of systems and hardware would reduce the direct economic impact of SEI and provide an economic benefit by greatly enhancing our international technical competitiveness through technology spin-offs and through the resulting early return on investment. Integrated planning and close interagency cooperation must occur if the SEI is to achieve its goal of expanding the human presence into the solar system and be an affordable endeavor. An energy-based mission planning approach gives each mission planner the needed power, yet preserves the individuality of mission requirements and objectives while reducing the concessions mission planners must make. This approach may even expand the mission options available and enhance mission activities. This paper describes power beaming as an energy-based approach to meeting the requirements for space power, space propulsion, surface power, and surface transportation. It examines the development of systems to meet requirements of near-Earth operations and how these systems and technologies can be used to meet SEI mission requirements. 5 refs.


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    Title :

    Integrated energy approach to providing power and propulsion for the Space Exploration Initiative


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1991


    Size :

    19 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English