[FPSPACE] Vasimr 200KW almost flight ready in 2008 and the solar electric sail like a Dand

[LARRY KLAES]

Vasimr 200KW almost flight ready in 2008 and the solar electric sail like a 
Dandelion seed

I will look at two near term space systems the Vasimr and the solar electric 
sail. Both could provide a significant increase in the performance of 
various space missions. Both have their advantages and would be welcome 
improvements in the capabilities of space systems. Vasimr can go up to 
higher power levels that are limited by the Vasimr system and the power 
system. The Solar electric sail uses no propellant while the Vasimr is ten 
times or more efficient than current chemical systems. Both could be in 
space flight tests in the next year or three.

The 200 kilowatt VX200 Vasimr system is almost ready for flight tests and 
the type of missions impacts it would have are discussed. The solar electric 
sail system which I reviewed last week is discussed again. Comparison is 
made to dandelion seeds and how the multiple parachute configuration could 
be used to combine the propulsion of several solar electric sails to move 
larger objects.

Full article here:

http://nextbigfuture.com/2008/04/vasimr-200kw-almost-flight-ready-in.html