Howe Industries, a company based in the USA, is currently working on a revolutionary technology known as the Pulsating Plasma Rocket (PPR) engine, which has the capability of producing a thrust up to 100,000 N with a specific impulse of 5000 seconds. This cutting-edge technology plays a crucial role in the advancement of deep space exploration, specifically in manned missions to Mars, potentially cutting down the travel time to just two months from the usual nine.
The concept behind the pulsating plasma engine involves harnessing nuclear energy through controlled nuclear fission. This approach is not only simpler but also more cost-effective compared to previous methods like pulsating nuclear synthesis.
According to a press release from NASA, the new propulsion system boasts high levels of efficiency, making it suitable for missions not only to Mars but also to destinations like the asteroid belt. Aside from enabling mining operations, the PPR technology also provides protection against cosmic radiation, a crucial consideration for prolonged space travel.
The NASA Innovative Advanced Concept (NIAC) program is currently focused on evaluating the neutron physics of the system, designing the spacecraft and its subsystems, as well as analyzing the capabilities of the magnetic nozzle and planning trajectories. The upcoming Phase II of the program aims to advance to the development of an enhanced engine, conduct testing, and design a spacecraft for crewed missions.
While Mars has been explored solely by robotic missions thus far, the challenges for human habitation on the planet are immense. Even with optimal alignment between Earth and Mars’ orbits, the return journey for astronauts could take a significant amount of time. The new propulsion system could potentially alleviate this issue by drastically reducing the travel time between the two planets.