NEP mission sensitivities to system performance

Abstract

Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP) mission performance is strongly affected by system performance. Power and propulsion system specific mass, specific impulse, and efficiency all combine to determine the performance limits for a given mission. Thruster technology determines the specific impulse and efficiency of the system. The effects of these parameters on the mission performance of NEP systems relative to other concepts was analyzed to give guidance to thruster development goals for a range of missions: Lunar Cargo, Mars Cargo, and Mars Piloted. Mission sensitivities to system parameters are discussed, and technology requirements are identified for each mission.