Advanced Space Propulsion Systems

Space propulsion systems have a great influence on our ability to travel to other planets or how cheap a satellite can provide TV programs. This book provides an up-to-date overview of all kinds of propulsion systems ranging from classical rocket technology, nuclear propulsion to electric propulsion systems, and further to micro-, propellantless and even breakthrough propulsion, which is a new program under development at NASA. The author shows the limitations of the present concepts and how they could look like in the future. Starting from historical developments, the reader is taken on a journey showing the amazing technology that has been put on hold for decades to be rediscovered in the near future for questions like how we can even reach other stars within a human lifetime. The author is actively involved in advanced propulsion research and contributes with his own experience to many of the presented topics. The book is written for anyone who is interested in how space travel can be revolutionized.

Bekey presents an imaginative view of what space could be like in the next several decades if new technologies are developed and bold new innovative applications are undertaken. He discusses a future environment for space activities very different from the predominant conditions of the past and present.

An understandable perspective on the types of space propulsion systems necessary to enable low-cost space flights to Earth orbit and to the Moon and the future developments necessary for exploration of the solar system and beyond to the stars.

"Commissioned by the European Space Agency."--P. [4] of cover.

An understandable perspective on the types of space propulsion systems necessary to enable low-cost space flights to Earth orbit and to the Moon and the future developments necessary for exploration of the solar system and beyond to the stars.

The revised edition of this practical, hands-on book discusses the launch vehicles in use today throughout the world, and includes the latest details on advanced systems being developed, such as electric and nuclear propulsion. The author covers the fundamentals, from the basic principles of rocket propulsion and vehicle dynamics through the theory and practice of liquid and solid propellant motors, to new and future developments. He provides a serious exposition of the principles and practice of rocket propulsion, from the point of view of the user who is not an engineering specialist.

The only comprehensive text available on space propulsion for students and professionals in astronautics.

Drawn from early volumes of Aerospace America and its antecedents, this book rescues the insights, concerns, and dreams of dozens of space propulsion experts for the next generation of aerospace scientists and engineers. Written by well-known figures in space propulsion, this book provides readily accessible source material for design courses in astronautical engineering. Propulsion Techniques surveys the technologies of rocketry in the traditional categories of liquid, solid, hybrid, nuclear, and electric propulsion. Historical trends and cycles are displayed in each category as articles describe concepts and progress from the early visions of Goddard, Oberth, and Tsiolkovsky to proposed (and re-proposed) ideas for advanced space thrusters. In addition to descriptions of rocket engines of various types, associated technologies for propellants and space-electrical power systems are discussed.