Multimodal space nuclear thermal propulsion and power system for space industrialization

Abstract

American industry will capitalize on available aerospace and nuclear technologies to continue space industrialization if shown a highly profitable approach. One is suggested that depends upon a sequence of co‐enabling mission architecture, propulsion, and payload improvements, which are based on concepts developed recently by our aerospace, nuclear, and chemical propulsion communities. Sequential development of specific cislunar and lunar industries are suggested to minimize early investments. Lunar and subsequent inner solar system industrial growth becomes feasible with lunar oxygen use in the recommended, multimodal, space nuclear propulsion and power system that provides the high specific impulse, system flexibility, life, and reliability needed to propel and power early spacecraft and outposts as well as future vehicles in more demanding mission architectures.