| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
Materials in Nuclear Energy Systems (MiNES) 2021
|
| Symposium
|
Materials in Nuclear Energy Systems (MiNES) 2021
|
| Presentation Title |
Overview of Fuel System Options for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion |
| Author(s) |
Kelsa Palomares, Douglas Burns, Harold Gerrish |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Kelsa Palomares |
| Abstract Scope |
An in-space propulsion technology, nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) has the potential to enable faster interplanetary transit times compared to traditional chemical propulsion methods due to its capacity for high specific impulse (900+ s) and thrust (~5 – 250 klbf). Because of these performance attributes, NTP is currently an advanced propulsion technology under consideration by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for future crewed Mars missions. The performance of NTP systems is directly contingent upon the development of a robust fuel form capable of withstanding high power densities and operation in a hydrogen environment at temperatures in excess of 2500 K. NASA, supported by the Department of Energy, is leading the development of NTP fuels and reactor materials under the space nuclear propulsion project. This presentation will overview development needs for fuels in NTP systems, historic and current fuel system options, and their remaining challenges prior to successful implementation. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Undecided |