Abstract
Whitepaper #339 submitted to the Planetary Science and Astrobiology Decadal Survey 2023-2032. Topics: other planetary bodies: Solar System Planetary Bodies including all Planets and thei[...]; planetary protection; technology development
Highlights
In-space propulsion is necessary for spacecraft to change course, unload reaction wheels, enter orbit, dock, and land on solar system targets
The analysis indicates that the LO2 tank loses about 42 mW of net heat if the tanks are pointed toward deep space
The oxygen can de-energize and densify during missions where the cryogenic tanks can be pointed towards deep space for long durations, so there is no loss in oxygen propellant due to phase change and this is accomplished without any active cooling
Summary
In this white paper we examine a new type of propulsion system for planetary science missions: a cryogenic hydrogen oxygen propulsion system (CHOPS). CHOPS offers several additional advantages over traditional hypergolic engines that are especially significant for planetary science missions, and in particular for landers at sites of astrobiological interest. These include ‘clean’ burning exhaust, similar to a fuel cell, which produces only water; throttleable landings; the possibility to use the propellant to generate electricity, allowing for longer lived missions than missions using just a primary battery; and the possibility to use the fuel as radiation shield. We recommend that cryogenic hydrogen oxygen propulsion systems, including those already under development at MSFC, GSFC, and elsewhere, are evaluated for planetary applications in ground testing, leading to an in-space demonstration
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