Focus Control System for Solar Thermal Propulsion

Abstract

The concept of solar thermal propulsion (STP) has been around for many years. One approach, shown in Figure 1, uses an off-axis parabolic concentrator mirror like a large magnifying glass to focus the sun's energy and heat-working fluid such as hydrogen to very high temperatures (3,000 K). The hydrogen is then expelled through a nozzle to produce thrust. This innovative concept is predicted to have twice the specific impulse of currently used chemical upper stage propulsion systems, and can therefore place twice the payload mass into geosynchronous orbit. Alternatively, smaller and cheaper launch vehicles can be used for the same payload size. The main drawback is the low thrust level of 0.1 to 10 lb, thus requiring trip times of 30-60 days. However, many payloads can tolerate longer trip times.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 04, 2000
Accession Number
ADA410345

Entities

People

  • Steven R. Wassom

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Sensors
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Attitude Control Systems
  • Closed Loop Systems
  • Control Systems
  • Engines
  • Environment
  • Failure Mode And Effect Analysis
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Simulations
  • Software Prototyping
  • Solar Propulsion
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Thermal Propulsion Systems
  • Three Dimensional

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Rocket Propulsion.
  • Solar Photovoltaics and Thermoelectric Devices.
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster
  • Space - Satellites