Cryogenic and LOX Based Propulsion Systems for Robotic Planetary Missions

Abstract

Robotic planetary missions use almost exclusively storable propellants. However, it is clear that the use LOX/LH2 and LOX/HC combinations will offer a tremendous payload gain for most robotic missions. The perceived complexity of cryogenic propulsion, the need of cryogenic propellants active refrigeration to eliminate boil-off losses and the high acceleration imparted to spacecraft structure by high thrust cryogenic engines have prevented the use of cryogenic propulsion for robotic missions. Elaborated thermal insulation techniques and the recent progresses in active refrigeration help to consider the use of cryogenic propulsion for interplanetary missions. The performance increase enable to consider new missions like Mars sample return without in orbit rendezvous or heavy rovers on Mars surface.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 13, 2005
Accession Number
ADA446254

Entities

People

  • Dominique Valentian

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Cryogenic Propellants
  • Diagrams
  • Disruptive Technology
  • Earth Orbits
  • Engines
  • Heat Energy
  • Insulation
  • Orbits
  • Pressurization
  • Propellants
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Schematic Diagrams
  • Solar Panels
  • Solar Radiation
  • Spacecraft
  • Thermal Insulation

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Robotics and Automation.
  • Rocket Propulsion.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • AI & ML
  • AI & ML - Autonomous Systems
  • Autonomy
  • Microelectronics
  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster
  • Space - Satellites
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers