Title :
Performance enhancement using power beaming for electric propulsion Earth orbital transporters
Author :
Dagle, Jeffery E.
Author_Institution :
Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA, USA
Abstract :
Power requirements for an electric propulsion Earth orbital transport vehicle (EOTV), which can effectively deliver large payloads using much less propellant than chemical transfer methods, are addressed. The power beaming concept is described. Arcjets, magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters, and ion engines are covered. Power supply characteristics are discussed for nuclear, solar and power-beaming systems. Operational characteristics are given for each, as are the effects of the power supply alternative on the overall craft performance. Because of its modular nature, the power beaming can meet the power requirements of all three electric propulsion types. Commonality of approach allows different electric propulsion approaches to be powered by means of a single power supply approach. Power beaming exhibits better flexibility and performance than onboard nuclear or solar power systems.<>
Keywords :
aerospace engines; aerospace propulsion; electric propulsion; MHD; aerospace engine; aerospace propulsion; arcjets; electric propulsion Earth orbital transporters; ion engines; magnetoplasmadynamic thruster; nuclear power; photovoltaic array; power beaming; power supply; solar power; Chemicals; Earth; Engines; Payloads; Power supplies; Power systems; Propulsion; Rockets; Satellites; Vehicles;
Journal_Title :
Aerospace and Electronic Systems Magazine, IEEE
