Optimization of the radiation shielding mass for the magnet coils of the VISTA spacecraft

摘要

An attempt has been made for the optimisation of the radiation shielding of a spacecraft design concept with inertial fusion energy propulsion for manned or heavy cargo deep space missions beyond earth orbit. Rocket propulsion is provided by fusion power deposited in the inertial confined fuel pellet debris, and with the help of a magnetic nozzle. The allowable nuclear heating in the super conducting magnet coils (up to 5 mW/Cm~3) is the crucial criterion for the dimensioning of the radiation shielding structure of the spacecraft.