Engineering topics

Dowler, W.

Publications and source records attributed to Dowler, W..

4 records

NASA NTRS1985

Novel extraterrestrial processing for space propulsion

In the present quantitative consideration of space processing concepts for chemicals, theoretical parametric calculations are supplemented by a bench scale experiment. Attention is given to the case of water splitting to generate hydrogen and oxygen for a simple rocket motor that can be used in periodic thrusting. This concept of in situ propellant production is treated in detail and compared with more recent energy and materials technologies.

Ramohalli, K.↗

NASA NTRS1980

Oxygen production for interplanetary return missions

Interplanetary missions with extraterrestrial returns are limited by large propulsion mass requirements. The injected mass landed on an extraterrestrial body can be reduced substantially by utilizing indigenous materials for the production of propellant on the extraterrestrial body. Analyses reported show that for Mars return missions, in situ production of oxygen during the wait between landing and the next low-energy return opportunity reduces the Earth-launch mass requirements to the allowable limit for direct entry and direct return missions. A small chemical processor using radioisotope thermal energy can extract oxygen several times its own mass from carbon dioxide, during the several-hundred-days wait on Mars. The fundamental element of the concept is the electrolytic process. Solid electrolyte cells for extracting oxygen from gaseous feedstock are identified. The basic physical principles underlying the extraction process are analyzed, and the relations between the major parameters established. The laboratory equipment for experimental investigation of the process is presented.

Richter, R.↗

NASA NTRS1974

Apogee motor rocketry reliability improvements

Since 1963, solid propellant apogee motors have been placing satellites into geosynchronous orbits. Major technological breakthroughs are not required to satisfy future mission requirements; however, there is a need to improve reliability to enhance cost effectiveness. Several management test options are discussed. A summary of results and conclusions derived from review of missions, where failure of a solid motor was inferred, and correlation of system factors with failures are reported. Highlights of a solid motor diagnostic instrumentation study are presented. Finally, recommendations are provided for areas of future apogee motor upgrade, which will increase project cost effectiveness by reducing the potential for future flight failures.

Behm, J.↗

NASA NTRS1974

Apogee motor rocketry reliability improvements

Since 1963, solid-propellant apogee motors have been placing satellites into geosynchronous orbits. Major technological breakthroughs are not required to satisfy future mission requirements; however, there is a need to improve reliability to enhance cost effectiveness. A summary of results and conclusions derived from a review of missions, where failure of a solid motor was inferred, and from a correlation of system factors with failures are reported. Highlights of a solid motor diagnostic instrumentation study are presented. Finally, recommendations are provided for areas of future apogee motor upgrade, which will increase project cost effectiveness by reducing the potential for future flight failures.

Behm, J.↗