SP-100 space reactor power system readiness and mission flexibility

Josloff, A. T.; Matteo, D. N.; Bailey, H.S.

doi:10.1063/1.43226

Cited by 5 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 2 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…Because of the expense and difficulty associated with performing realistic full-power ground nuclear tests, previous programs have considered the option of foregoing full-power ground nuclear testing in favor of a flight test. For example, in Josloff (1993) (referring to the SP-100 program) it is stated that "There has been recent interest among government agencies in establishing an early flight mission that would provide the catalyst needed to enable confident planning for subsequent operational missions. This first flight would validate the total system performance, obviate the need for costly ground nuclear testing, demonstrate safety features and facilitate safety approval through the INSRP process for the subsequent operational missions."…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Hardware Based Technology Assessment in Support of Near-Term Space Fission Missions

Houts

Dyke²,

Godfroy³

et al. 2003

AIP Conference Proceedings

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Hardware Based Technology Assessment in Support of Near-Term Space Fission Missions

Houts

Dyke²,

Godfroy³

et al. 2003

AIP Conference Proceedings

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

An overview of NASA's projected mission requirements for space nuclear systems

et al. 1994

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Phase 1 space fission propulsion system design considerations

Houts¹,

Dyke²,

Godfroy³

et al. 2002

AIP Conference Proceedings

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Abstract. Fission technology can enable rapid, affordable access to any point in the solar system. If fission propulsion systems are to be developed to their full potential; however, near-term customers must be identified and initial fission systems successfully developed, launched, and operated. Studies conducted in fiscal year 2001 (IlSTP, 2001 show that fission electric propulsion (FEP) systems operating at 80 kWe or above could enhance or enable numerous robotic outer solar system missions of interest. At these power levels it is possible to develop safe, affordable systems that meet mission performance requirements.In selecting the system design to pursue, seven evaluation criteria were identified: safety, reliability, testability, specific mass, cost, schedule, and programmatic risk. A top-level comparison of three potential concepts was performed: an SP-100 based pumped liquid lithium system, a direct gas cooled system, and a heatpipe cooled system. For power levels up to at least 500 kWt (enabling electric power levels of 125-175 kWe, given 25-35% power conversion efficiency) the heatpipe system has advantages related to several criteria and is competitive with respect to all. Hardware-based research and development has further increased confidence in the heatpipe approach. Successful development and utilization of a "Phase 1" fission electric propulsion system will enable advanced Phase 2 and Phase 3 systems capable of providing rapid, affordable access to any point in the solar system.

show abstract

SP-100 space reactor power system readiness and mission flexibility

Cited by 5 publications

References 2 publications

Hardware Based Technology Assessment in Support of Near-Term Space Fission Missions

Hardware Based Technology Assessment in Support of Near-Term Space Fission Missions

An overview of NASA's projected mission requirements for space nuclear systems

Phase 1 space fission propulsion system design considerations

Contact Info

Product

Resources

About