Advanced Radioisotope Heat Source & Propulsion Systems for Planetary Exploration
- Paper number
IAC-10.C4.7.-C3.5.1
- Author
Dr. Robert O'Brien, Center for Space Nuclear Research, United States
- Coauthor
Dr. Steven Howe, USRA, United States
- Coauthor
Mr. James Werner, Idaho National Laboratory, United States
- Year
2010
- Abstract
The exploration of planetary surfaces and atmospheres may be enhanced by increasing the range and mobility of a science platform. Fundamentally, power production and availability of resources are limiting factors that must be considered for all science and exploration missions. A novel power and propulsion system is considered and its subsystems are discussed with reference to a long-range Mars surface exploration mission with in-situ resource utilization. Significance to applications such as sample return missions is also considered. Key material selection, radioisotope encapsulation techniques and challenges are presented.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-10.C4.7.-C3.5.1.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.