The future of manned space exploration and development of space depends critically on the creation of a vastly more efficient propulsion architecture for in-space transportation. Nuclear-powered rockets can provide the large energy density gain required. A small scale, low cost path to fusion-based propulsion is to be investigated. It is accomplished by employing the propellant to compress and heat a magnetized plasma to fusion conditions, and thereby channel the fusion energy released into heating only the propellant. Passage of the hot propellant through a magnetic nozzle rapidly converts this thermal energy into both directed (propulsive) energy and electrical energy.
More »The development of this technology can enable a dramatically more efficient propulsion architecture for in-space transportation.
More »Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
---|---|---|---|
MSNW, LLC | Lead Organization | Industry | Redmond, Washington |
Iowa State University | Supporting Organization | Academia | Ames, Iowa |
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