Slashdot | VASIMR Ion Engine Could Cut Mars Trip To 39 Days

[Paul D. Fernhout]

http://science.slashdot.org/story/09/10/19/1324222/VASIMR-Ion-Engine-Could-Cut-Mars-Trip-To-39-Days
"It would take about 39 days to reach Mars, compared to six months by
conventional rocket power. “This engine is in fact going to be tested on the
International Space Station, launched about 2013,” astronaut Chris Hadfield
said. The Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR®) system
encompasses three linked magnetic cells. The "Plasma Source" cell involves
the main injection of neutral gas (typically hydrogen, or other light gases)
to be turned into plasma and the ionization subsystem. The "RF Booster" cell
acts as an amplifier to further energize the plasma to the desired
temperature using electromagnetic waves. The "Magnetic Nozzle" cell converts
the energy of the plasma into directed motion and ultimately useful thrust."
http://www.canada.com/technology/rocket+engine+could+make+trips+Mars+realistic/2119300/story.html
http://www.adastrarocket.com/VASIMR.html

--Paul Fernhout
http://www.pdfernhout.net/
http://www.beyondajoblessrecovery.org/
http://www.openvirgle.net/