Gasdynamic mirror fusion propulsion experiment

Statistics – Applications

Scientific paper

Rate now

  [ 0.00 ] – not rated yet Voters 0   Comments 0

Details

Theory, Design, And Computerized Simulation, Spaceborne And Space Research Instruments, Apparatus, And Components, Observatories And Site Testing

Scientific paper

Nuclear fusion appears to be the most promising concept for producing extremely high specific impulse rocket engines. One particular fusion concept which seems to be particularly well suited for fusion propulsion applications is the gasdynamic mirror (GDM). This device would operate at much higher plasma densities and with much larger L/D ratios than previous mirror machines. Several advantages accrue from such a design. First, the high L/D ratio minimizes to a large extent certain magnetic curvature effects which lead to plasma instabilities causing a loss of plasma confinement. Second, the high plasma density will result in the plasma behaving much more like a conventional fluid with a mean free path shorter than the length of the device. This characteristic helps reduce problems associated with ``loss cone'' microinstabilities. An experimental GDM device is currently being constructed at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center to provide an initial assessment of the feasibility of this type of propulsion system. Initial experiments are expected to commence in the late fall of 2000. .

No associations

LandOfFree

Say what you really think

Search LandOfFree.com for scientists and scientific papers. Rate them and share your experience with other people.

Rating

Gasdynamic mirror fusion propulsion experiment does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Gasdynamic mirror fusion propulsion experiment, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Gasdynamic mirror fusion propulsion experiment will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

     

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1712120

  Search
All data on this website is collected from public sources. Our data reflects the most accurate information available at the time of publication.