Evaluation of radioisotope electric propulsion for selected interplanetary science missions

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Evaluation of radioisotope electric propulsion for selected interplanetary science missions

Oh, David / Bonfiglio, Eugene / Cupples, Mike / Belcher, Jeremy / Witzberger, Kevin / Fiehler, Douglas / Robinson Artis, Gwen

Abstract

This study assessed the benefits and applicability of REP to missions relevant to the In-Space Propulsion Program (ISPP) using first and second generation RPS with specific powers of 4 We/kg and 8 We/kg, respectively. Three missions representing small body targets, medium outer planet class, and main belt asteroids and comets were evaluated. Those missions were a Trojan Asteroid Orbiter, Comet Surface Sample Return (CSSR), and Jupiter Polar Orbiter with Probes (JPOP). For each mission, REP cost and performance was compared with solar electric propulsion system (SEPS) and SOA chemical propulsion system (SCPS) cost and performance. The outcome of the analysis would be a determinant for potential inclusion in the ISPP investment portfolio.

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Document information

Title :

Evaluation of radioisotope electric propulsion for selected interplanetary science missions

Contributors:

Oh, David (author) / Bonfiglio, Eugene (author) / Cupples, Mike (author) / Belcher, Jeremy (author) / Witzberger, Kevin (author) / Fiehler, Douglas (author) / Robinson Artis, Gwen (author)

Conference:

29th International Electric Propulsion Conference, Princeton University ; 2005 ; Princeton, NJ, United States

Publication date :

2005-10-31

Type of media :

Conference paper

Type of material :

No indication

Language :

English

Keywords :

electric propulsion , low thrust , Spacecraft Propulsion And Power , radioisotope power system (RPS) , trojan asteroid