Development of Transient Modeling Capabilities for Liquid Core Nuclear Thermal Propulsion Engines

Space exploration is on the cusp of an exciting new era, with ambitious missions to Mars and beyond within our grasp, thanks to advancements in technologies like the Space Launch System and collaborations between public and private sectors. However, these missions require more efficient and capable in-space propulsion technologies to enable new missions, reduce transit times, increase payload capacity, and reduce costs. This proposal focuses on the development of Nuclear-Thermal Propulsion (NTP) technology, with a specific emphasis on the liquid-core Centrifugal Nuclear Thermal Rocket (CNTR). The CNTR is a high-performance NTP engine with the potential to revolutionize space exploration, offering a specific impulse of 1800 seconds and thrust ranging from 10-100 kN. However, a crucial challenge must be addressed before CNTR can be tested--the development of a reliable startup, shutdown, and restart methodology. This proposal aims to tackle this challenge by developing a transient system model to investigate key concerns related to CNTR startup and shutdown sequences, such as the amount of initial propellant required, uniformity of fuel melting, control drum speeds, and managing heat produced during shutdown. The proposed technical approach involves enhancing an existing steady- state CNTR model to enable transient modeling to investigate the aforementioned concerns. Reactivity coefficients will be generated using the Serpent code to account for various factors affecting reactivity feedback. The model will be used to calculate thrust, specific impulse, reactivity, and other parameters throughout the engine's operational duration. This proposal addresses a critical challenge in the development of the CNTR, a potentially transformative technology for space exploration. By developing transient modeling capabilities and optimizing startup and shutdown sequences, this work will advance liquid-core NTP technology and pave the way for more efficient space travel. This progress aligns with NASA's objectives in advancing propulsion technology, facilitating future missions to Mars and beyond.

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