Metal-CO2 propulsion for mars missions: Current status and opportunities

摘要: *† Metal-CO2 propulsion is less known than other Mars in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) technologies. This concept, based on using Martian carbon dioxide as an oxidizer in jet or rocket engines, offers the advantage of no chemical processing for CO2 and thus requires power consumption ISRU alternatives. In this paper, we review various aspects metal-CO2 propulsion, such combustion magnesium aluminum CO2, engine types characteristics, production liquid metal fuel Mars, potential missions. Lunar terrestrial applications are also discussed. I. Introduction N-SITU Resource Utilization recognized enabling technology exploration which can significantly reduce mass, cost, risk robotic human The critical element future missions large mass propellant a ascent vehicle, while to accommodate long stay mobility important. Transportation from Earth tremendous increase initial hardware low orbit (and hence mission cost) compared prior no-return Fortunately, possesses resources that be used production. atmosphere consisting 95% obvious most promising resource. I