Presenter(s): Manju Bangalore − Physics, Mathematics
Faculty Mentor(s): Dan Tichenor, Ben Roberts
Oral Session 3S
Research Area: Space Exploration
The evolution of life has always depended on exploration. From single cell organisms to multicellular, from water to land, and onwards to consciousness. NASA’s hope is to land astronauts on the Red Planet in the 2030s. But how do we get there? A proper propulsion system is necessary to transport the crew members to and from Mars. Current technologies being investigated will take 6 – 12 months just for a one-way trip. However, there are other technologies available for R&D, such as nuclear electric propulsion. A study was conducted to layout and translate the technical capabilities of each major in-space propulsion option for legislators and key decision makers. In addition, the paper examines the policy and political implications of choosing one system over another. This paper serves as a critical addition to the information legislators and policymakers need to decide which transportation system will carry our species beyond one planet, continuing our legacy of crossing new frontiers.