New ways of increasing the efficiency of interstellar thermonuclear engines
Abstract
Theoretical studies of interstellar thermonuclear engines and successful experiments with hydrogen isotope compression to a density of 100 g/cu cm have demonstrated possibilities for increasing the efficiency of such propulsion devices. In particular, the efficiency of a thermonuclear engine can be increased by increasing fuel efficiency through the on-board generation of high-efficiency components of the targets detonated in the combustion chamber. A further increase in engine efficiency can be achieved by using an electromagnetic accelerating nozzle extension for increasing the energy of the charged microexplosion products.
- Publication:
-
Rocket and Space Technology - The Ideas of K.E. Tsiolkovsky and Modern Development; Lectures Devoted to K.E. Tsiolkovsky's Ideas
- Pub Date:
- 1991
- Bibcode:
- 1991rsti.tran..117Z
- Keywords:
-
- Interstellar Spacecraft;
- Nuclear Propulsion;
- Power Efficiency;
- Space Power Reactors;
- Specific Heat;
- Kinetic Energy;
- Specific Impulse;
- Spacecraft Propulsion and Power