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Enabling a new generation of outer solar system missions: engineering design studies for nuclear electric propulsion

Enabling a new generation of outer solar system missions: engineering design studies for nuclear electric propulsion

Casani, John R.; Strange, Nathan J.; Gibson, Marc A.; Poston, David I.; Elliott, John O.; McCarty, Steven L.; McClure, Patrick R.; Oleson, Steven R.; Sotin, Christophe J.
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/2014/47277
Date: 2020-01-30
Publisher: Pasadena, CA: Jet Propulsion Laboratory, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, 2020
Citation: Upcoming Decadal Survey Call for Comments White Paper, Pasadena, California, January 30, 2020

Abstract:

We discuss a nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) capability that would (1) enable a class of outer solar system missions that cannot be done with radioisotope power systems and (2) significantly enhance a range of other deep-space mission concepts. NASA plans to develop Kilopower technology for lunar surface power. Kilopower can also serve as a power source for a 10-kWe NEP system; therefore, we highlight 10-kWe NEP benefits to encourage the NASA Science Mission Directorate (SMD) to advocate (as a potential beneficiary) for NASA’s plan to develop Kilopower and to motivate further 10-kWe NEP–related concept studies.

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