A Theoretical Approach of UNIT (Unified Nuclear Integral Technology) Propulsion and its Potential for Future Applications in Space Exploration 2015-01-9004
Space exploration is the present inevitable challenge for researchers. Various theoretical propulsion concepts have been evolved over the past years for space missions. Their potential remains as a key factor for the spacecraft to travel deeper into space in a shorter mission duration. The propulsion concept UNIT is an integrated nuclear propulsion technique that provides high entry, descent and landing (EDL) performance in such short duration to conquer other galaxies. This paper describes the theoretical approach of the UNIT propulsion system in detail. UNIT produces the highest energy possible by consuming nuclear fuel and possess the highest potential that opens new opportunities for space exploration. The principle is that the neutrons from the fusion are deliberately allowed to induce fission. It uses National Ignition Facility's laser beam for inertial confinement fusion followed by utilizing the power from tubular solid fuel cell. Thus, the net thrust is produced from the expansion of the combined plasma of the nuclear fusion and nuclear fission reactions through the nozzle.
Citation: Dran, S., "A Theoretical Approach of UNIT (Unified Nuclear Integral Technology) Propulsion and its Potential for Future Applications in Space Exploration," SAE Int. J. Aerosp. 8(1):155-159, 2015, https://doi.org/10.4271/2015-01-9004. Download Citation
Author(s):
Sarath Ramachan Dran
Affiliated:
Jaya Engineering College
Pages: 5
ISSN:
1946-3855
e-ISSN:
1946-3901
Also in:
SAE International Journal of Aerospace-V124-1, SAE International Journal of Aerospace-V124-1EJ
Related Topics:
Nuclear fuel
Nuclear energy
Fuel cells
Technical review
Spacecraft
Thrust
Nozzles
Lasers
SAE MOBILUS
Subscribers can view annotate, and download all of SAE's content.
Learn More »