Research and Technology. NASA public domain image colelction.
Summary
The Direct Gain Solar Thermal Engine was designed with no moving parts. The concept of Solar Thermal Propulsion Research uses focused solar energy from an inflatable concentrator (a giant magnifying glass) to heat a propellant (hydrogen) and allows thermal expansion through the nozzle for low thrust without chemical combustion. Energy limitations and propellant weight associated with traditional combustion engines are non-existant with this concept. The Direct Gain Solar Thermal Engine would be used for moving from a lower orbit to an upper synchronous orbit.
Tags
Date
09/01/1998
Location
Marshall Spaceflight Center, Huntsville, Madison County, Alabama, United States, 35808, 34.63076, -86.66505
Source
NASA
Copyright info
Public Domain Dedication (CC0)