The QED engine - Fusion-electric propulsion for Cis-Oort/Quasi-Interstellar (QIS) flight
Abstract
A summary is presented of QED fusion-direct-electric engine systems, their features, and performance ranges. The principles and characteristics of inertial-electrostatic-fusion (IEF) power source systems are then reviewed, and their application to the diluted-fusion-product (DFP) engine concept for QIS missions is discussed. Particular attention is given to vehicle performance over a range of very high specific impulses and to specifications of a typical candidate DFP/IEF engine and a single-stage vehicle for rapid flight to 550 AU.
- Publication:
-
Graz International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- October 1993
- Bibcode:
- 1993graz.iafcY....B
- Keywords:
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- Electric Discharges;
- Inertial Confinement Fusion;
- Interstellar Travel;
- Spacecraft Propulsion;
- Electrostatics;
- Engine Design;
- Regenerative Cooling;
- Spacecraft Design;
- Spacecraft Radiators;
- Specific Impulse;
- Thrust-Weight Ratio;
- Spacecraft Propulsion and Power