We show that perfect propulsion requires a constant momentum mission, as a consequence of Newton's second law. Perfect propulsion occurs when the velocity of the propelled mass in the inertial frame of reference matches the velocity of the propellant jet in the rocket frame of reference. We compare constant momentum to constant specific impulse propulsion, which, for a given specification of the mission delta V, has an optimum specific impulse that maximizes the propelled mass per unit jet kinetic energy investment. We also describe findings of more than 50% efficiency for conversion of laser energy into jet kinetic energy by ablation of solids.


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    Title :

    Thermodynamic Limitations on Energy Conversion in Laser Propulsion


    Contributors:
    C. W. Larson (author) / F. B. Mead (author) / S. D. Knecht (author)

    Publication date :

    2003


    Size :

    12 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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