Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy
Scientific paper
Aug 2006
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2006esasp.633...45f&link_type=abstract
First Workshop on Innovative System Concepts, 21 February 2006, Noordwijk, The Netherlands. Ed.: Karen Fletcher. ESA SP-633, Noo
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astronomy
1
Interstellar Precursor Missions
Scientific paper
In this paper it is shown that an advanced form of gridded ion thruster, employing a novel 4-grid ion extraction and acceleration system rather than the usual two or three grid variants, can provide a velocity increment and specific impulse of interest to interstellar precursor missions, extending to a few hundred astronomical units from the sun. In this it is assumed that a nuclear power source is available with a mass-to-power ratio of 15 to 35 kg/kW and an output of at least several tens of kW. Mission durations are of about 25 years and the velocity increment provided exceeds 37 km/s. The paper includes a description of the technical approach adopted to achieving the required values of specific impulse, thrust density and power consumption, and presents for the first time the data obtained from an experimental programme conducted at ESTEC to verify the principles on which these theoretical predictions are based.
Fearn Dave G.
Walker Roger
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