Mini-Mag-Orion: A Pulsed Nuclear Rocket for Crewed Solar System Exploration

Abstract

* AIAA Member, Space Systems Engineer † AIAA Member, Chief Technology Officer ABSTRACT Andrews Space has been awarded a NASA SBIR for the investigation and experimental verification of the Mini-MagOrion (MMO) concept. The MMO concept is a GigaJoule scale pulsed nuclear fission device, where low mass criticality is accomplished by the electromagnetic compression of individual fission pellets. The resulting fission reaction produces a highly energetic plasma, which is then expanded through a magnetic nozzle. Experiments on the Sandia National Laboratory Saturn and Z pulsed power machines were utilized to determine concept feasibility, and the results are presented. The design of the propulsion system based on the Mini-MagOrion concept, together with a look at the accompanying vehicle design and anticipated system performance are also discussed. An analysis of engine / nozzle interaction is presented, together with associated requirements on the vehicles power and thermal management subsystems. Vehicle performance assessments are given for crewed and robotic missions to the inner and outer solar system, indicating favorable capabilities based on near-term achievable technology.