NOFBX Single-Stage-to-Orbit Mars Ascent Vehicle Engine

We propose the continuation of our research and development of a Nitrous Oxide Fuel Blend (NOFBXTM) Single-Stage-to-Orbit (SSTO) monopropellant propulsion system for future use on a Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV) as part of the Mars Sample Return (MSR) architecture. This liquid monopropulsion system architecture is also readily scalable to alternative planetary ascent vehicles (PAV's) and sample return systems. Key areas of our proposed development and demonstration are in the nozzle miniaturization to support compact vehicle packaging into an MSR vehicle and use of a passive thrust vector control mechanism with three engines to avoid the necessity of a low temperature gimbal mechanism.

Commercial space and military applications will likely be able take advantage of the performance enhancements for NOFBXtm propulsion systems and the thrust vectoring technology that will be developed under the proposed effort. Commercial entities already interested in NOFBXtm mono-propulsion systems include Space X, Ball Aerospace and Boeing.

Successful research in this area will provide an enabling capability for planetary accent vehicle technology. The NASA applications are many, the foremost being the opportunity to supply the propulsion system for Mars Sample Return Missions. However this technology may be applied to lunar comet and other planetary missions that require an accent vehicle propulsion system.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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