Performance analysis of a combined laser and neutral particle beam propulsion concept based on self-guiding

Abstract

Beamed propulsion concepts based on laser or particle beams have been proposed for highenergy missions to the outer solar system and the nearest stars. These approaches rely on minimizing the beam divergence in order to maximize the propagation distance, momentum transfer efficiency, and final velocity of the accelerated spacecraft. Here, we present and analyze a new concept for a self-guiding beam based on a combination of laser and particle beams that exploit a known mechanical self-guiding effect. The physical mechanisms, equations of motion, and conditions for self-guiding are presented and related to constraints on the beam sources. Based on these constraints, an algorithm is developed for maximizing the payload capability for a given mission profile by adjusting the laser and particle source parameters. Beam optimization is performed for a flyby mission of Proxima Centauri b. Results show that the self-guided propulsion concept enables reduced transmitter size and improved payload capability which scales strongly with mission velocity and the brightness of the neutral beam source.