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In-Space Propulsion Assessment Processes and Criteria For Affordable Systems
AIAA-99-2611
In-Space Propulsion Assessment Processes and Criteria For Affordable Systems
R. Rhodes and E. Zapata, NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center
Presented Los Angeles, CA. June 1999
for the
35th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit
DOWNLOAD >> AIAA-99-2611 (.pdf File - 189 KB) or AIAA-99-2611 (.doc File - 183 KB)
Abstract
In a world of high launch costs to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), and of costs nearly twice as high to Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO), it is clear that processes and criteria are required which will surface the path to greater affordability. Further, with propulsion systems making up a major part of the systems placed into multiple orbits, or beyond, it is clear that addressing propulsion systems for in-space propulsion (ISP) is a key part to breaking the barriers to affordable systems. While multitudes of Earth to Orbit transportation system efforts focus on reduced costs, the often neglected costs and related interactions of the in-space system equally require improvements that will enable broad end-to-end customer affordability.
It is the objective of this paper to describe a process used by the Space Propulsion Synergy Team (SPST) In-Space Propulsion Task Force in the development of technology evaluation criteria for future in-space propulsion systems. The method used is a structured, traceable process which surfaces key drivers for the development of affordable systems responsive to customer needs. The experience and knowledge of diverse, relevant team members is a cornerstone of the process. Multiple applications, reusable to expendable systems, in Earth orbit, solar/planetary orbit or beyond, such as interstellar, have all been considered as options within the process. Further, the results of the process are presented in particular as relates to the cross-cutting needs of diverse customers for future in-space operations.
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Website Contact: Edgar Zapata, NASA Kennedy Space Center