Two general classes of interstellar space-flights are first defined: endothermic and exothermic. Endothermic methods utilize power sources external to the vehicle and associated technology. Faster exothermic methods utilize on-board propulsive power sources or energy-beam technology. Various proposed endothermic electric propulsion methods are next described. These include solar electric rockets, mass drivers, and ramjets. A review of previously suggested exothermic electric propulsion methods is next presented. Following this review is a detailed discussion of possible near future application of the beamed-laser ramjet, an exothermic technique which had previously been considered, mainly for ultimate relativistic travel. As discussed in the conclusion, electric/magnetic techniques offer an excellent possibility for decelerating an interstellar vehicle, regardless of the acceleration technique.
Electric propulsion and interstellar flight
Elektroantrieb und interstellarer Flug
AIAA-Papers ; May ; 1-5
1987
5 Seiten, 2 Bilder, 20 Quellen
Conference paper
English
Electric propulsion and interstellar flight
AIAA | 1987
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