A thrust program called perigee propulsion which minimizes gravity loss is analyzed. Thrust is applied intermittently in regions of high velocity (near successive perigees). The increased energy-addition efficiency yields mass ratios approaching those for impulsive velocity change. Corresponding times to reach desired energy are in days but are still small relative to mission times. For specified orbital-launch missions, perigee- propulsion nuclear-rocket systems are shown to equal continuous-thrust performance with reactor powers an order of magnitude less than those of continuous-thrust systems. Application and operational aspects of perigee propulsion are discussed.


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    Title :

    Perigree Propulsion for Orbital Launch of Nuclear Rockets


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1961-08-31


    Type of media :

    Miscellaneous


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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