Solar Thermal Propulsion: An Investigation of Solar Radiation Absorption in a Working Fluid

摘要

The objective of this solar thermal propulsion study was to examine the state of the science of direct absorption of solar radiation into a working fluid for use in propulsive devices. In particular, the absorption characteristics of alkali seeded hydrogen gas were investigated. Because of obvious parallels, the laser propulsion literature was reviewed as well as the solar propulsion literature. The investigation also covered peripheral areas such as aerodynamic windows and alkali/hydrogen mixing techniques. This report presents the important details from the existing information with an extensive list of references included. Recommendations for future theoretical and experimental Air Force research were made based upon the data uncovered. Topics addressed include: Absorption Coefficients, Solar Radiation Absorption, Hydrogen-Alkali Absorption, Laser Propulsion, and Aerodynamic Windows.