This paper presents an overview of the Nuclear Electric Propulsion Space Test Program (NEPSTP). The program goals, the proposed mission, the spacecraft, and the Topaz II space nuclear power system are described. The subject of flight qualification is examined and the inherent difficulties of qualifying a space reactor are described. The differences between US and Russian flight qualification procedures are explored. A plan is then described that was developed to determine an appropriate flight qualification program for the Topaz II reactor to support a possible NEPSTP launch. Refocusing of the activities of the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (BMDO), combined with budgetary pressures, forced the cancellation of the NEPSTP at the end of the 1993 fiscal year.


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    Title :

    Issues in the flight qualification of a space power reactor


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1994


    Size :

    9 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




    Issues in the Flight Qualification of a Space Power Reactor

    Polansky, G. F. / Schmidt, G. L. / Voss, S. S. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1994



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