Abstract
The paper deals with a more-dimensional evaluation of the benefits achievable by using super high energy triplet helium propellant (He∗) instead of LOX/LH 2. The evaluation criteria were, among others, technical performances, environmental aspects, risk potentials and costs. They were measured by a hierarchy of objectives. Using completely new propellants could revolutionize space travel which is up to now characterized by the use of conventional chemical systems with maximum specific impulses below 500 s at high thrust levels. The necessity of cost reductions is the most important driver. Triplet helium is considered in combination with different working fuels (liquid helium, liquid hydrogen) due to its advantages in comparison with other super high energy propellant candidates: very high specific energy, easy production, high density. It is regarded as being trapped within a cryogenic lattice of solid helium or solid hydrogen. Two different launch vehicles are analysed to deliver required data for the evaluation: a SLLV (small lift launch vehicle) carrying 7 Mg of payload, and a HLLV (heavy lift launch vehicle) carrying 120 Mg of payload. The vertically launched ballistic vehicles are fully reusable. The investigation used a long term space traffic scenario (R. E. Lo, J. Laßmann and M. Thierschmann, paper presented at the 42nd IAF Congress, Montreal[1]) as background. Degrees of goal achievement were determined with the help of a computer code using complex planning algorithms. Operational costs of the alternative concepts are presented. It is shown in the paper, that the implementation of transportation systems with super high energy triplet helium propellant is beneficial in some areas compared to conventional LOX/LH 2 systems. Vehicle volumes and masses as well as operational costs will be reduced. However, according to the present state-of-the-art, insurmountable technical problems arise against the realization of such propulsion systems.
Published Version
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