Optimization of Interplanetary Propulsion Systems

The classicial optimization calculations are extended in case of an electric multistage propulsion system. That which consists in utilizing an energy generator composed of many elements, some of which are jettisoned during the trip. It is shown that the performances are thus increased when the payload is less than 1/4 of the initial total mass. Also reliability is increased. A simplification of the optimization calculations, as well as the discussion of it, is obtained by using non-dimensional variables; thus the number of independent parameter is decreased from 3 to 1.