Theoretical Design and Overview of Steam Propelled and Nuclear Powered Interplanetary Transit Vehicle for Human Crewed Extraterrestrial Exploration

Abstract

This article provides a theoretical overview of a spacecraft that utilizes extraterrestrial water resources and controlled nuclear fission to propel itself during interplanetary travel. The spacecraft is equipped with a water extraction module to supply water to a large water-boiler container, a small nuclear reactor, a nuclear heat coupler, and an exhaust nozzle for steam propulsion. When the reactor is activated, the water is transformed into steam through nuclear heat and is stored in a pressurized steam chamber. Once the steam reaches a specific pressure limit, it is released through the nozzle, resulting in steam propulsion and the movement of the spacecraft. The velocity of the spacecraft can be adjusted by controlling the injection of steam into the propulsion chamber. In this study, we have examined the feasibility, design overview, and constraints associated with constructing this type of spacecraft in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The proposed spacecraft aims to provide faster and more reliable interplanetary transit beyond Mars, utilizing renewable energy resources. Since water resources can be found beyond Mars through asteroids, comets, and moons, the challenge lies not in finding water but in the extraction process. Furthermore, the scientific community requires faster transit vehicles for human exploration of Mars and Ceres. However, no architecture has been proposed for crewed exploration beyond this point. Ultimately, it is hoped that this type of spacecraft will enable future astronauts to undertake deep space exploration missions in the coming decades. The manuscript will delve into the design strategy, challenges, launch vehicles needed for deploying assembling instruments, and the assessment of dimensions and crew capability.