Accettura Antonio G, Bruno Claudio, Casotto Stefano, Marzari Francesco
Space Propulsion Design Department, Fiat Avio, Colleferro Rome, Italy.
Acta Astronaut. 2004 Apr;54(7):471-86. doi: 10.1016/s0094-5765(03)00208-x.
The aim of this paper is to evaluate the feasibility of a mission to Mars using the Integrated Propulsion Systems (IPS) which means to couple Nuclear-MPD-ISPU propulsion systems. In particular both mission analysis and propulsion aspects are analyzed together with technological aspects. Identifying possible mission scenarios will lead to the study of possible strategies for Mars Exploration and also of methods for reducing cost. As regard to IPS, the coupling between Nuclear Propulsion (Rubbia's engine) and Superconductive MPD propulsion is considered for the Earth-Mars trajectories: major emphasis is given to the advantages of such a system. The In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) concerns on-Mars operations; In Situ Propellant Utilization (ISPU) is foreseen particularly for LOX-CH4 engines for Mars Ascent Vehicles and this possibility is analyzed from a technological point of view. Tether Systems are also considered during interplanetary trajectories and as space elevators on Mars orbit. Finally strategic considerations associated to this mission are considered also.
本文的目的是评估使用集成推进系统（IPS）执行火星任务的可行性，该系统意味着将核动力磁等离子体推进器-原位推进利用系统（Nuclear-MPD-ISPU）相结合。具体而言，将任务分析、推进方面与技术方面一同进行了分析。确定可能的任务方案将有助于研究火星探测的可能策略以及降低成本的方法。关于集成推进系统，在地球-火星轨道上考虑了核推进（鲁比亚发动机）与超导磁等离子体推进之间的耦合：重点阐述了这种系统的优势。原位资源利用（ISRU）涉及火星上的作业；预计原位推进剂利用（ISPU）特别适用于火星上升飞行器的液氧-甲烷发动机，并从技术角度对这种可能性进行了分析。在行星际飞行过程中以及在火星轨道上作为太空电梯时也考虑了系绳系统。最后还考虑了与该任务相关的战略考量。
