Are Low-Cost Mission to Explore the Bodies of the Outer Solar System Fasible?

摘要

After considering the general requirements for deep space missions, in particular those to Europa, the various methods of reducing overall mission cost are discussed. It is shown that the greatest benefit will be obtained by employing an electric propulsion (EP) system providing a high specific impulse, which will enable the mass of propellant carried to be less than 10/100 of that necessary using chemical thrusters.