17. What about fusion propulsion? (A K2S Question)

From The Space Library

Nuclear energy is the only energy source known that can provide the required specific energy, and nuclear fusion may be the only method that can provide the required specific power. However, controlled nuclear fusion that produces more energy than is required to keep it running has never been achieved in the laboratory. A Department of Energy goal is to develop fusion technology to produce power at one cent per kilowatt-hour. Concepts have been suggested for fusion propulsion that are very attractive for propulsion but are not consistent with the ground electric power cost goals. Also, the current fusion concepts being pursued for low cost ground power are not the best for propulsion. So, most of the fusion propulsion work is theoretical for now, since there is no mission requirement yet. One criterion for mission approval is the availability of the required technology.

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Answer provided by John W. Cole

Question and Answer extracted from the book Kids to Space - by Lonnie Schorer

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