Summary and Recommendations on Nuclear Electric Propulsion Technology for the Space Exploration Initiative

Download or read book Summary and Recommendations on Nuclear Electric Propulsion Technology for the Space Exploration Initiative written by National Aeronautics and Space Adm Nasa and published by Independently Published. This book was released on 2018-11-14 with total page 128 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A project in Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP) technology is being established to develop the NEP technologies needed for advanced propulsion systems. A paced approach has been suggested which calls for progressive development of NEP component and subsystem level technologies. This approach will lead to major facility testing to achieve TRL-5 for megawatt NEP for SEI mission applications. This approach is designed to validate NEP power and propulsion technologies from kilowatt class to megawatt class ratings. Such a paced approach would have the benefit of achieving the development, testing, and flight of NEP systems in an evolutionary manner. This approach may also have the additional benefit of synergistic application with SEI extraterrestrial surface nuclear power applications. Doherty, Michael P. and Holcomb, Robert S. Glenn Research Center FLIGHT TESTS; MISSION PLANNING; NUCLEAR ELECTRIC PROPULSION; SPACE EXPLORATION; SPACECRAFT PROPULSION; PROPULSION SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS; PROPULSION SYSTEM PERFORMANCE...