An alternative strategy for low specific power reactors to power interplanetary spacecraft, based on exploiting lasers and lunar resources
Description:
A key requirement setting the minimum electric propulsion performance (specific power ..cap alpha../sub e/ = kW/sub e//kg) for manned missions to Mars is the maximum allowable radiation dose to the crew during the long transits between Earth and Mars. Penetrating galactic cosmic rays and secondary neutron showers give about 0.1-rem/day dose, which only massive shielding (e.g., a meter of concrete) can reduce significantly. With a humane allowance for cabin space, the shielding mass becomes so l…
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Date:
February 2, 1989
Creator:
Logan, B. G.
Partner:
UNT Libraries Government Documents Department