Применение мощных энергодвигательных систем для выполнения транспортных задач в космосе

Abstract

The purpose of the research was to consider the application of high power level power and propulsion systems for different space missions. The paper gives the main components of high power level nuclear power and propulsion systems as well as their architecture options and integration solutions. Within the research, we set requirements to characteristics of high power level power and propulsion systems of advanced spacecraft aimed for different transport missions in near-Earth and deep space, analyzed efficiency of nuclear power and propulsion systems applied for transport missions in comparison with conventional chemical propulsion systems. Findings of the research show that high power level power and propulsion systems have the following advantages in comparison with conventional chemical propulsion systems: increase of payload mass; possibility of direct flights (without gravitational maneuvers) to deep space objects; ensuring power supply of target equipment and communication systems at a qualitatively higher level.