Power technology options for nuclear electric propulsion

On-going studies being conducted under the office of space science (Code S) in-space propulsion program have identified high power (100 kWe) NEP as an enabling technology for space science missions. The benefits of NEP include larger payload fractions, faster and more direct trajectories, and increased power at destination as compared to other propulsion technologies. In order to realize these benefits, a critical first-step is the development of a lightweight, long-lived reactor power system. This paper presents a historical review of relevant space reactor power programs, describes the operational characteristics of candidate power conversion technology options, and proposes a reactor power system concept with appealing near term performance and long term growth potential.