1. Space Based Nuclear Power
Nuclear Reactor Group
J.T. Halbert
Gregory Whitney
Matthew Whitten
Sean Hinze
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2. Problem Description
Design a nuclear reactor to supply at least 5 MWe continuously for extended periods of time in space.
Develop for use with the VASIMR.
Consider possible planetary applications.
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3. Overview Background Examined Solutions Assumptions and Constraints
Design Criteria
Final Design / Future Work
Conclusions/Comments
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4. Background
New NASA space missions require multiple megawatt power supplies.
Nuclear reactors are the most efficient source of power.
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5. Examined Solutions
Uranium

6. Complexity of Assembly
Design Criteria
Safety
Reliability
Mass
Sustainability
Complexity of Assembly
Fuel Properties
Heat Levels
Geometry
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7. Assumptions and Constraints
Materials available
Public opinion can be changed
Reactor used with VASIMR
Reactor also used on surface of Mars
Constraints
5 MWe continuous power supply in space and on Mars
Radiation minimized
Mass minimized
Launchable
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8. Estimated Reactor Mass: 2000 Kg Fuel Lifetime: 98 years
Reactor Type: Fast
Reactor Fuel: Uranium Nitride
Reactor Core Geometry: Perforated Cylinder
Control Device: Control Drums (emergency shutoff)
Estimated Reactor Mass: Kg
Fuel Lifetime: 98 years
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9. Power Conversion Emitter temperature: 2000K
Heat Transport: ≈1140 Lithium Heat Pipes
Conversion Unit: Thermionic
Emitter temperature: 2000K
Collector temperature: 1100K
Estimated Efficiency: 25.5%
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10. Radiator, Shield, and Armor
Radiator Area: 200 – 265 square meters
Shield: Lithium Hydride and Tungsten
Armor Type: Composite (TransHab)
H2 Tanks
Reactor
Spacecraft / VASMIR Interface
LiH Shield
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11. Future Work Detailed analysis of Analysis of reentry and surface use
Power conversion
Radiator design
Shield design
Armor design
Analysis of reentry and surface use
Reactor Maintenance
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12. Conclusions We have a final design for a 5 MWc Nuclear Reactor.
More analysis needed for power conversion, radiator, shield, and armor designs.
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13. Questions / Comments ?
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