Overview of the In-Space Propulsion (ISP-1) project

Abstract

The intent of this publication is to provide an overview of the progress of the ISP1 project over the 2011-2012 period. In the frame of the European FP7 Collaborative Project, Focused Research Project Theme 7, the In- Space Propulsion (ISP-1) project GA# 218849 was initiated in 2009 with the objective of improving the knowledge and the techniques which are necessary for future space missions relying on cryogenic propulsion. The ISP-1 program is structured into five main work packages which deal with various technological issues associated to the development of a Low Thrust Cryogenic Propulsion system. It concentrates on liquid oxygen, liquid hydrogen, and liquid methane propellants. The subject addressed by the work packages are the LOX-methane combustion, the hydrogen embrittlement, the material compatibility and tribology in liquid oxygen, the energy management of low thrust propulsion system, and the development of electrically driven cryogenic turbopumps.