Ambitions to reach Mars have always been hampered by the length of the journey which requires almost two years for a round trip using current propulsion technologies. However, a new rocket concept could radically change the situation.
A pulsed plasma propulsion system
Currently, conventional space propulsion methods mainly use chemical propulsion engines with liquid or solid propellant. They work by burning fuels to produce thrust that propels the spacecraft through space. However, this method has significant limitations in terms of efficiency and travel time, due to the limited amount of fuel the craft can carry and the time required to reach the speed required to complete the journey to Mars, d ‘where the interest of this new concept: the pulsed plasma propulsion (PPR) system.
Developed by Howe Industries, the Pulsed Plasma Propulsion (PPR) system is based on technology designed to be significantly more efficient than current methods. It is in fact distinguished by its high specific impulse (Isp), a measure of how efficiently it generates thrust. Concretely, instead of depending on chemical reactions to generate thrust, this concept is based on a nuclear energy system based on controlled fission. This system therefore uses the division of atoms to release energy which is then converted into thrust via a pulsed plasma.
This plasma, composed of electrically charged particles, is accelerated by an electromagnetic field to produce extremely efficient thrust. This method would achieve much higher speeds than traditional chemical propulsion engines, significantly reducing the time needed to reach Mars at about two months. PPR would also be significantly smaller, simpler and more affordable than previous technologies, paving the way for more ambitious space missions.
Transforming space exploration
In addition to reducing travel time, such a rocket could also make it possible to integrate much heavier payloadsthus providing the possibility of installing additional shielding to protect the crew from harmful high-energy particles such as galactic cosmic rays, encountered during prolonged spaceflight.
With its exceptional performance combining high Isp and increased thrust, this rocket could radically transform space exploration. This innovation could ultimately bring NASA’s dream of establishing a permanent base on the surface of the Red Planet closer to fruition.
The PPR concept now enters phase II of the study Innovative Advanced Concept (NIAC) of NASA, after successfully completing Phase I. This new stage will focus on optimizing the engine design, validating the operating principles and designing a spacecraft suited to the demands of these rapid journeys to March.
