Reddy, Srikanth K.. Study of structural integrity of interstellar spacecraft reaction chamber and thrust structure in support of Project Icarus. Retrieved from https://doi.org/doi:10.7282/T3S46Q11
DescriptionThis thesis supports studies of the international effort of Project Icarus, dedicated to the unmanned, interstellar exploration of nearby stellar systems within the next century. The target system is 5.9 light years away, with a required velocity of 12% the speed of light. This study primarily focuses on the structural analysis of the reaction chamber and supporting structure of the Icarus interstellar spacecraft, which will be powered by nuclear fusion reactions to achieve the required velocity and time-frame for the mission. First, a computational finite element analysis is conducted on the reaction chamber in terms of loading, vibration, and fatigue. Different configurations and assumptions are studied for the reaction chamber as well. Present-day manufacturing considerations are also taken into account, with a modest extrapolation for future manufacturing technologies that are currently not in existence. Next, the thrust supporting structure for the reaction chamber is incorporated into the analysis. This study serves as a precursor for the multi-level analysis into the eventual detailed design and production of an interstellar spacecraft, and is the first such study.