Some novel space propulsion systems

Abstract

Several spacecraft beam‐propulsion concepts are introduced. “Mesoparticle beam propulsion” uses a collimated beam of mesoscopic particles, very roughly on the order of a nanogram mass each. Molecular nanotechnologies may permit the inclusion of entire guidance systems in each particle. “Micro Lightsails for beam propulsion” proposes matter‐beams composed of small, thin film lightsails with nanoscale components. Pushing a spacecraft with small, high velocity lightsails may be currently viable. “Ultracold matter beam generators” are proposed as a new type of space‐based particle‐beam. Design‐variants include a laser‐cooled thermal jet and a laser‐cooled, neutralized‐ion beam. Possible uses include the shipment of condensed, ultracold matter through space, the formation of an “artificial aerobraking corridor”, and beam‐propulsion for micro and nanospacecraft.

Citation

Bishop, F. (2003), "Some novel space propulsion systems", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 75 No. 3, pp. 247-255. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022660310474474