Nuclear and Radioisotope Propulsion and Power in the Atmosphere of Titan

T. Widdicombe (2013), JBIS, 66, pp.395-396

Refcode: 2013.66.395

Abstract:
A brief history of the use of nuclear fuelled powerplant in space is given along with some working principles of the technology, and recent proposals for spacecraft for the exploration of Titan utilising radioisotope generators are surveyed. Nuclear reaction engines are studied with specific consideration given to their use in Titan’s atmosphere, and speculative modifications to one particular spacecraft concept originally conceived of for the exploration of Mars are proposed. A hybrid device producing mechanical power from nuclear decay heat is also suggested for future investigation.