What is it about?
Can we explore space with water? This paper explores the feasibility of using steam as a fuel for small spacecraft. The analysis of this paper is based on a nozzle design optimized for thrust output. The physical experiment was conducted in atmosphere and was simulated in space using ANSYS Fluent.
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Why is it important?
Space exploration is a federal and private interest for many nations. But the resources and fuel necessary become quickly become costly. If steam can be verified as a reliable fuel alternative or supplement, not only would it decrease cost but, it could increase the lifespan of a mission given the abundance of water in our solar system.
Perspectives
I believe that this study could stand as a strong beginning to validating steam as a propellant and making out space environment more accessible to us here down on Earth!
M. Catherine Yopp
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Comparative Methodology and Validation of Steam as a Monopropellant Through a Converging-Diverging Nozzle, July 2021, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA),
DOI: 10.2514/6.2021-2899.
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