Within the NEP (Nuclear Electric Propulsion) RocketRoll (pReliminary eurOpean reCKon on nuclEar elecTric pROpuLsion for space appLications) project, we have successfully completed the third milestone, the main focus of which was to secure the NEP concept has preliminary architecture of the nuclear fission reactor, thermoelectric conversion cycle and associated components, thrusters.
OHB Czechspace leads the feasibility study of the Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP) program, so-called “RocketRoll”, which aims to explore the possibilities of using nuclear fuel for demanding space logistics and exploration missions. Within the project, OHB Czechspace is supported by scientists from the Czech Technical University in Prague, propulsion system engineers from OHB System and Institute of Space Systems (IRS) from the University of Stuttgart.
Current in-space propulsion possibilities are approaching their physical limits, beyond which an increase of performance is impossible. A new type of nuclear-based electric propulsion (NEP) should address passing these limits and enable the space logistics to be upgraded to a new level. NEP could positively impact flights to distant areas of our Solar System, transportation of heavy cargos or human bases on the Moon and Mars.
OHB Czechspace and the consortium successfully closed RocketRoll project milestone 3, securing the NEP concept has preliminary architecture of the following elements: nuclear fission reactor, thermoelectric conversion cycle and associated components, thrusters. In addition, trade-off on nuclear fuels was finalized and key technologies for maturation were identified. Consortium also identified and provided preliminary technical, safety and budget requirements. All the findings were presented to broader audience during the IP-CCI workshop at ESTEC. Below, you can find pictures from the presentation and from the European Space Agency (ESA) establishment - ESTEC.
You can read more information about the project NEP RocketRoll here.
Contact:
Lucie Kopecká
HR & Marketing Specialist
Tel: +420 777 999 584
E-Mail: pr@ohb-czech.cz
