Computer Science – Performance
Scientific paper
May 1986
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1986mmm..work..856h&link_type=abstract
In NASA. Marshall Space Flight Center Manned Mars Mission. Working Group Papers, V. 2, Sect. 5, App. p 856-872 (SEE N87-17760 10
Computer Science
Performance
Cost Effectiveness, Manned Mars Missions, Manned Space Flight, Mars (Planet), Nuclear Power Reactors, Propulsion System Configurations, Rocket Engines, Spacecraft Configurations, Feasibility Analysis, Performance Tests, Test Facilities
Scientific paper
The feasibility of rebuilding and testing a nuclear thermal rocket (NTR) for the Mars mission was investigted. Calculations indicate that an NTR would substantially reduce the Earth-orbit assemble mass compared to LOX/LH2 systems. The mass savings were 36 and 65% for the cases of total aerobraking and of total propulsive braking respectively. Consequently, the cost savings for a single mission of using an NTR, if aerobraking is feasible, are probably insufficient to warrant the NTR development. If multiple missions are planned or if propulsive braking is desired at Mars and/or at Earth, then the savings of about $7 billion will easily pay for the NTR. Estimates of the cost of rebuilding a NTR were based on the previous NERVA program's budget plus additional costs to develop a flight ready engine. The total cost to build the engine would be between $4 to 5 billion. The concept of developing a full-power test stand at Johnston Atoll in the Pacific appears very feasible. The added expense of building facilities on the island should be less than $1.4 billion.
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