Long-life space reactor for photon propulsion

Abstract

We have examined the core characteristics of Pu-based metallic alloy fuels used in the gallium-cooled fast reactor core. The objective of the reactor is to provide a high-temperature heat source for the photon engine to be used as the rocket propulsion in the deep space. In the concept, the liquid metal fast nuclear reactor uses metallic fuel in the liquid phase and high-temperature gallium coolant (inlet 2400 K, outlet 2600 K). The molten fuel is continuously supplied to the reactor during operation at full reactor power. The reactor power is controlled by a rotation of control drums with absorber material.