Lee Johnson
Papers
1
Total Citations
18
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Lee Johnson is a leading figure in advanced electric propulsion, specializing in high-power ion thrusters for deep space exploration. His most notable contribution is the development of the Nuclear Electric Xenon Ion System (NEXIS), a groundbreaking thruster designed to enable nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) for ambitious outer planet robotic missions. Johnson’s work, detailed in his highly cited 2012 paper, demonstrates a thruster capable of operating at power levels between 13 and 28 kW, achieving specific impulses of 6000-8500 seconds, and sustaining continuous burns for up to a decade. This innovation directly addresses the need for efficient, long-duration propulsion, making missions to Jupiter, Saturn, and beyond more feasible. With 18 citations, his research has become a foundational reference in the field, influencing subsequent NEP system designs. Johnson’s achievements underscore his pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of space travel, offering a practical pathway to exploring the solar system’s most distant frontiers.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1A high power ion thruster for deep space missions18 citations · 2012