The application of a nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) stage in the exploration of near-earth, cometary, and planetary space was discussed. The NEP stage is powered by a liquid-metal-cooled, fast spectrum thermionic reactor capable of providing 120 kWe for 20,000 hours. This power is used to drive a number of mercury ion bombardment thrusters with specific impulse in the range of 4000-5000 seconds. The NEP description, characteristics, and functional requirements are discussed. These requirements are based on a set of five coordinate missions, which are described in detail. These five missions are a representative part of a larger set of missions used as a basic for an advanced propulsion comparison study. Additionally, the NEP stage development plan and test program is outlined and a schedule presented. (Author)
Nuclear Electric Propulsion Stage Requirements and Description
1974
71 pages
Report
No indication
English
Multi-mission nuclear electric propulsion stage design.
NTRS | 1973
|SDIO ELECTRIC PROPULSION REQUIREMENTS
British Library Conference Proceedings | 1990
|SDIO Electric Propulsion Requirements
NTIS | 1990
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