A Neptune Vision Mission Using Nuclear Electric Propulsion

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A Neptune Vision Mission Using Nuclear Electric
Propulsion

• Science Objectives (Orbiter, Probes, Landers)
• Origin and Evolution of Ice Giants. P, O
• Planetary Processes P, O
• Triton Atmosphere and Surface Science O, L
• Rings O
• Magnetospheric and Plasma Processes O
• Icy Satellites Science O
• Mission Description
• Leverage NEPP technology
• Mission to Neptune
• Low thrust earth departure
• 16 year transit time from Earth to Neptune
• Possible gravity assist from Jupiter flyby to
  shortens transit time
• Mission at Neptune / Triton
• 3 Probes targeted to different latitudes
• Release 1st probe as Orbiter approaches Neptune,
  prior to orbit insertion
• Probe descent to 200 bars/ 5 hours
• 1st Triton Lander following 1st probe mission
• Probes 2.3Lander 2 missions over 3 year period

• Enabling Technology Development
• Orbiter
• Improved electric propulsion capability
• Mission design to support multiple Probes,
  Landers
• Probes
• TPS and test facilities for 25 kmk/sec Neptune
  entry
• Pressure vessel design for long duration, deep
  mission
• Highly integrated instrument/pressure vessel
  design for probe miniaturization
• Landers
• Thermal design for Triton surface operations (35
  ºK)
• Efficient, low mass propulsion for soft landing