Fusion Energy for Space Missions in the 21st Century

The goal of this work is ultimately to assist in the achievement of space science and exploration missions and thus to assist in the implementation of the National Space Policy. This analysis commenced with a self initiated inquiry concerning the importance of and the need for more advanced forms of space mission energy conversion, thereby permitting the accomplishment of more ambitious space science objectives. As one set of questions led to another during the initial phase of the inquiry, a drive developed to conduct an independent investigative analysis on where the space program is headed with regard to energy conversion. It ultimately has culminated in this report, the scope of which increased substantially in response to interest shown and questions raised as the study progressed. It is intended to be a presentation of all key issues which need to be addressed as part of a comprehensive space strategy. These include mission objectives, the energy options available, the preferred approach-and why, the system requirements, status of the fusion program and probability of achieving results, confinement preferences, safety, reliability, maintainability, economics, operations, program options, and recommended strategy. Various levels of depth are selected with greater emphasis placed upon the more important topics for the purpose of this report. Emphasis is placed upon confinement options and more depth upon the preferred approach. Part of the depth also reflects the technology status in some situations.