A report presents an overview of continuing efforts to develop an advanced propulsion system for a spacecraft that would ascend from Mars to bring samples to Earth. The system is required to be smaller and to weigh and cost less, in comparison with a conventionally designed system of equal capability. The development efforts include research on several topics, including the following, which are discussed in the report: (1) warm-gas pressurization subsystems for pushing liquid propellants from supply tanks to engines, (2) lightweight, high-performance rocket engines that burn propellant fluids supplied at temperatures below 0°C, (3) lightweight tanks for propellants and pressurants, and (4) lightweight flow-control components. Finally, the report describes the latest version of the system, which features a two-stage design with pyrotechnic separation.
This work was done by Carl Guernsey, Barry Nakanzo, Hartwell Long, and Andre Yavrouian of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. NPO-20428
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Mars ascent propulsion system
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Overview
The document presents an overview of the Mars Ascent Propulsion System (MAPS), a project aimed at developing an advanced propulsion system for spacecraft that will ascend from the surface of Mars to return samples to Earth. The propulsion requirements for this mission are significant, necessitating a free-space equivalent delta-V of 4.6 km/s, which exceeds the capabilities of current chemical propulsion systems. To address these challenges, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is exploring several promising technologies that can enhance performance while minimizing mass and cost.
Key areas of research include:
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Warm-Gas Pressurization Systems: These systems are designed to pressurize propellant tanks using warm gas, which can improve the efficiency of propellant delivery to the rocket engines compared to traditional cold-gas systems.
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Lightweight, High-Performance Rocket Engines: The development of rocket engines that utilize low-temperature propellants aims to reduce the overall mass of the propulsion system while maintaining high performance.
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Lightweight Tankage: The project emphasizes the need for lightweight tanks for both propellants and pressurants, which is crucial for meeting the stringent mass constraints of the mission.
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Lightweight Flow Control Components: Innovations in flow control components are also being pursued to further reduce the system's weight and enhance its efficiency.
The document outlines the ongoing research and development efforts, which are critical for ensuring that the MAPS meets the mission's performance requirements while remaining within the constraints of available launch vehicles, such as the Delta III or Atlas 2AR. The successful implementation of these technologies is expected to provide significant leverage in achieving the mission's objectives.
Additionally, the report discusses the importance of conducting integrated system testing to validate the performance of the chosen technologies. The collaborative work of the inventors, including Carl Guernsey, Barry Nakazono, Hartwell Long, and Andre Yavrouian, reflects a concerted effort to innovate within the constraints of budget and technology.
In summary, the MAPS project represents a significant advancement in propulsion technology, aiming to facilitate the ambitious goal of returning Martian samples to Earth while adhering to cost and mass limitations. The ongoing research at JPL is pivotal in overcoming the challenges associated with Mars ascent missions.
