A report presents a design concept for an instrumented robotic vehicle (rover) to be used on a future mission of exploration of the planet Mars. The design incorporates a nuclear fission power system to provide long range, long life, and high power capabilities unachievable through the use of alternative solar or radioisotope power systems. The concept described in the report draws on previous rover designs developed for the 2009 Mars Science laboratory (MSL) mission to minimize the need for new technology developments.
The surface fission power system that would be used consists of a 15 kW (thermal) heat-pipe-cooled reactor coupled with a Stirling generator to provide 3 kW of electrical power. This power system would be compact enough to fit readily into prior rover chassis concepts, allowing further adaptation of previously designed MSL elements, including the aeroshell and pallet lander system, with modifications to support the significant mass added by the nuclear reactor and its associated shielding. The estimated mass of the fission power system, including its mission-specific shielding, is 1,169 kg.
This work was done by John Elliott of Caltech, Dave Poston of Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Ron Lipinski of Sandia National Laboratory for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For more information, download the Technical Support Package (free white paper) at www.techbriefs.com /tsp under the Mechanics/Machinery category. NPO-30865
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Design Concept for a Nuclear-Reactor-Powered Mars Rover
(reference NPO-30865) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) detailing a design concept for a nuclear reactor-powered Mars rover, identified by NTR Number 30865. This initiative is part of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, aimed at disseminating aerospace-related developments with potential broader applications.
The design concept is presented in a paper authored by John O. Elliott, Ronald J. Lipinski, and David I. Poston, which was featured in the AIP Conference Proceedings from the 2003 SPACE TECHNOLOGY AND APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL FORUM. The paper discusses the technical aspects and potential benefits of utilizing nuclear reactor technology to power a rover on Mars, addressing the challenges of energy supply for long-duration missions on the Martian surface.
Nuclear power is proposed as a viable solution due to its ability to provide a consistent and robust energy source, which is crucial for the rover's operations, scientific experiments, and communication systems. The document emphasizes the importance of reliable power in the harsh Martian environment, where solar energy may be insufficient due to dust storms and the planet's distance from the Sun.
The Technical Support Package also outlines the potential for this technology to extend the operational lifespan of Mars rovers, enabling more extensive exploration and data collection. It highlights the innovative nature of the project and its alignment with NASA's goals for human space exploration and next-generation space transportation.
For further inquiries or detailed information, the document provides contact details for the Innovative Technology Assets Management at JPL, including a mailing address, telephone number, and email. It also includes a disclaimer regarding the use of the information, stating that neither the U.S. Government nor its representatives assume liability for its application.
In summary, the document serves as a comprehensive overview of a pioneering concept in space exploration technology, showcasing the potential of nuclear power to enhance the capabilities of future Mars missions. It reflects NASA's commitment to advancing aerospace technology and fostering innovative partnerships for exploration beyond Earth.
