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  • Feasibility assessment of deceleration technologies for interstellar probes

    Paper number

    IAC-20,D4,4,6,x61030

    Author

    Mr. Kush Kumar Sharma, France, International Space University (ISU)

    Coauthor

    Prof. Chris Welch, France, International Space University (ISU)

    Coauthor

    Dr. Andreas Makoto Hein, France, Ecole Centrale de Paris

    Year

    2020

    Abstract
    Sending a probe to another star will likely be a costly endeavour, which needs to be justified by a return of investment such as scientific value. The ability to decelerate at the target system is important, as it would significantly enhances the scientific return of such a mission, as the probe would be able to collect data for a longer duration. To date, a number of concepts have been proposed for decelerating an interstellar probe. However, a systematic comparison  of the different approaches along with their feasibility seems to be missing. This paper compares and assesses the feasibility of deceleration concepts, which are based on momentum exchange with the interstellar medium, the stellar wind or radiation. The comparison is based on factors such as technology readiness level, mass-specific deceleration force, and qualitative (dis-)advantages. Based on this analysis, the most feasible near-term approach is identified together with a roadmap for its development.
    Abstract document

    IAC-20,D4,4,6,x61030.brief.pdf

    Manuscript document

    IAC-20,D4,4,6,x61030.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

    To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.