by Playfuls Staff |
22nd February 2007
U.S. rocket scientists say they have developed a prototype engine that allows satellites to take off carrying up to 40 [more] percent less fuel.
The Georgia Tech researchers say their more efficient satellite engine uses less fuel by running on solar power while in space and by fine-tuning exhaust velocity. That, they said, might lead to deep space missions, lower launch costs and more orbital payloads due to mass freed by the lesser amount of fuel needed for lift off.
The project, led by Assistant Professor Mitchell Walker, was funded by a grant from the U.S. Air Force.
The key to the engine improvements, said Walker, is the ability for ground controllers to adjust the engine's operation based on the immediate propulsive need of the satellite. A traditional chemical satellite rocket engine runs at maximum exhaust velocity until it reaches orbit.
Walker says the new satellite engine is nearly ready for military applications but might be several years away from commercial use.
© 2007 UPI
