Earth-Mars trajectories for multiple solar-powered spacecraft configurations were generated using Hall and ion propulsion systems utilizing the Direct Trajectory Optimization Method. Payload and power trades versus trip time were examined. Performance was compared for purely interplanetary flight and interplanetary flight with estimated spiral in to Mars orbit. Evaluating current ion and Hall thruster technologies, similar payload masses were delivered by each at equivalent trip times, but with the Hall thruster operating at a power level 10 kilowatts, on average, less than the ion thruster. The power difference for equivalent payload delivered should result in a significant cost savings.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    A Comparison of Electric Propulsion Systems for Mars Exploration


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    39th Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit ; 2003 ; Huntsville, AL, United States


    Publication date :

    2003-09-01


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English


    Keywords :



    A Comparison of Electric Propulsion Systems for Mars Exploration

    Fiehler, Douglas / Oleson, Steve | AIAA | 2003


    A COMPARISON OF ELECTRIC PROPULSION SYSTEMS FOR MARS EXPLORATION

    Fiehler, D. / Oleson, S. / American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2003