Status and Prospects for Nuclear Rockets
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Report Number: AFOSR 69-2951TR p. 290-317
Author(s): Gabriel, David S., Johnson, Paul, Morrissey, John
Corporate Author(s): AEC/NASA Space Nuclear Propulsion Office
Date of Publication: 1969-12
DoD Task:
Identifier: This paper is part of a conference proceedings. See AD0703442
Abstract:
Our present space exploration capability is sharply limited by the propulsion systems available. Exploration in depth and scientific measurements of consequence require factors of 2 or 3 improvement in payload capability. Factors of 2 or 3 improvement translate into much larger factors of improvement in capability. The first generation nuclear rocket engine can make possible extended explorations of the lunar surface with adequate equipment to make important scientific measurements. The first generation nuclear rocket is also expected to add to the reliability, safety, and operational simplicity of space exploration missions. High performance allows provision for adequate design margin. The NERVA technology program has demonstrated adequate capability to perform all space missions of interest. Further performance gains appear to be reasonable expectations. The technology program has also demonstrated that nuclear rocket engines can be provided in a thrust range from 10,000 to 250,000 pounds. It is expected that this step improvement in propulsion capability will have large effects on space exploration capabilities.
Author(s): Gabriel, David S., Johnson, Paul, Morrissey, John
Corporate Author(s): AEC/NASA Space Nuclear Propulsion Office
Date of Publication: 1969-12
DoD Task:
Identifier: This paper is part of a conference proceedings. See AD0703442
Abstract:
Our present space exploration capability is sharply limited by the propulsion systems available. Exploration in depth and scientific measurements of consequence require factors of 2 or 3 improvement in payload capability. Factors of 2 or 3 improvement translate into much larger factors of improvement in capability. The first generation nuclear rocket engine can make possible extended explorations of the lunar surface with adequate equipment to make important scientific measurements. The first generation nuclear rocket is also expected to add to the reliability, safety, and operational simplicity of space exploration missions. High performance allows provision for adequate design margin. The NERVA technology program has demonstrated adequate capability to perform all space missions of interest. Further performance gains appear to be reasonable expectations. The technology program has also demonstrated that nuclear rocket engines can be provided in a thrust range from 10,000 to 250,000 pounds. It is expected that this step improvement in propulsion capability will have large effects on space exploration capabilities.