Magnetohydrodynamic Power Generation in Space from a Repetively Detonated Device

It is proposed to continue development of a novel concept for space power generation based on coupling of a Pulse Detonation Rocket Engine (PDRE) with a magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) generator. This highly efficient chemical power generation approach allowsfor deployment of clusters of satellites, thus increasing the survivability and operability of the defense system. The proposed PDRE-MHD can also be used for efficient space propulsion, allowing the satellite to perform orbital change maneuvers. Theconcept is low-cost, extremely robust, and (through a multiple-tube design) highly tolerant to component failure. The Phase I studies demonstrated its viability and indicated the generator performance can be significantly higher than that of aconventional rocket-MHD system when accounting for all system operations. The unique operating characteristics of the PDRE may also provide ways for even greater performance increase. This Phase II effort proposed to experimentally demonstrate thetechnology and optimize and individual PDRE-MHD device. A system engineering study will lead to final design of the complete orbital platform. Besides low-cost, efficient space power generation, other applications include advanced space propulsionconcepts, which have a significant commercial potential. The proposed research and development will be leveraged with a complementary National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)-funded project. The PDRE-MHD concept is a revolutionary approach tochemical-MHD power generation. The technology provides the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (BMDO) with a low-cost, dual-use, highly efficient and flexible design for an orbital power-generating platform. The technology also has applications inadvanced space propulsion technology of interest to NASA, as well as large commercial development potential.