Space solar power generation systems have a significant impact on Electric Propulsion (EP) technology development. Recent advances in solar cell, deployment, and concentrator hardware have led to significant decreases in component mass, reducing system specific power. Combined with maneuvering requirements for Air Force and DoD missions of interest, propulsive requirements emerge that provide direction for technology investments. Projections for near- to mid-term propulsion capabilities are presented indicating the need for thrusters capable of processing larger amounts of power (100 - 200 kW), operating at relatively moderate specific impulse (2000 - 5000 s) and high efficiency (> 60%), and having low mass.
Air Force Research Laboratory High Power Electric Propulsion Technology Development
2009
10 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch