Accession Number:

ADA345765

Title:

Advanced Power Sources for Space Missions

Descriptive Note:

Corporate Author:

NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES WASHINGTON DC

Personal Author(s):

• Gavin, J. G., Jr.
• Burkes, T. R.
• English, R. E.

Report Date:

1989-01-01

Pagination or Media Count:

153.0

Abstract:

This study examines the status of and outlook for advanced power sources for space missions. The study resulted from a request by the U.S. Department of Defense DOD for an independent review relating to the space power requirements of its Strategic Defense Initiative SDI. Initial impetus for the study came from the U.S. Air Force Wright Aeronautical Laboratories, at about the time the SDI Organization was being formed in DOD. Initially, the charge to this committee included these tasks 1 Evaluate the planning for the development of advanced space based high power technologies to determine the best combination of technology options that should be pursued. 2 Critique current SDI power development plans and objectives. 3 Identify an alternate power program plan that would meet SDI requirements for space based power. 4 Identify technology development approaches that could lead to enabling power system capabilities for future space based defensive systems.

Descriptors:

• *STRATEGIC DEFENSE INITIATIVE
• *SPACE WEAPONS
• *SPACECRAFT NUCLEAR PROPULSION
• SPACE SYSTEMS
• POWER SUPPLIES
• SPACE MISSIONS
• DIRECTED ENERGY WEAPONS
• SPACE BASED

Subject Categories:

• Nuclear Propulsion
• Unmanned Spacecraft
• Directed Energy Weapons

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE