The Fission Fragment Rocket Engine for Mars Fast Transit
Physics and Society
2024-02-07 v1
Abstract
In this paper we discuss the advantages and challenges of utilizing Fission Fragment Rocket Engines (FFREs) to dramatically reduce transit time in space travel, for example, traveling to Mars. We discuss methods to decrease the size and weight of FFREs. These include utilizing metallic deuterides as moderators, driving the engines with electron beam bremsstrahlung, and operating the FFREs as subcritical assemblies, not as nuclear reactors. We discuss these and other new innovations based upon improved materials and technology that may be integrated into a revolutionary nuclear rocket technology.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2308.01441,
title = {The Fission Fragment Rocket Engine for Mars Fast Transit},
author = {John Gahl and Andrew K. Gillespie and Cuikun Lin and R. V. Duncan},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2308.01441},
year = {2024}
}
Comments
10 pages, 2 figures, 2 tables