The roar and rumble of fast chemical rockets excite us. However, chemical propulsion systems are insufficient for a long-term presence in space. We wi

Spacefaring Requires Advancing Space Propulsion

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2021-06-06 08:00:03

The roar and rumble of fast chemical rockets excite us. However, chemical propulsion systems are insufficient for a long-term presence in space. We will not become truly spacefaring with chemical propulsion alone. Sustainable space transportation requires alternative and forward-thinking paradigms to space propulsion.

Propulsion is one of my favorite nouns in both English and Spanish. It originates in medieval Latin. Space propulsion gets even more exotic. In addition to the conventional chemical varieties, space propulsion includes a wide range of non-chemical systems, including but not limited to electric, nuclear, and photonic propulsion.

I have been fortunate enough to look in-depth at alternative paradigms for space propulsion in my professional trajectory. I have also learned about the myriad nuances, advantages, and disadvantages of different space propulsion technologies for robotic and crewed missions in cislunar and deep space.

For this article, I examined two different approaches in Seattle, United States, and Helsinki, Finland. Both of them seek to advance the state and limitations of the space industry to empower us with options.