NASA - Venus Technology Plan (DRAFT) December, 2018

In summary, there are ongoing discussions and research on the feasibility of operating a nuclear reactor on Venus, despite its hostile environment. Potential solutions being explored include using high-temperature systems and components, aerial platforms, and in situ instruments. The Venus Exploration Analysis Group (VEXAG) is also prioritizing these technologies for future missions to the planet.
  • #1
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This discussion relates to another thread on the feasibility of operating a nuclear reactor on Venus.
https://www.physicsforums.com/threa...ure-nuclear-reactor-operate-in-venus.1003619/

Venus represents a hostile environment with a surface temperature of ~470°C and pressure of 93 bar (1,350 psi), with a composition of 0.965 CO2, 0.035 N2, and traces of other gases like SO2, Ar, H2O, CO, . . . . Yet, there are folks giving it serious consideration.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atmosphere_of_Venus

I'd recommend an open Brayton cycle, as in a jet engine-rocket motor.

The Venus Exploration Analysis Group (VEXAG) resolved to update the scientific priorities and strategies for Venus exploration. To achieve this goal, three major tasks were defined to update: (1) the document prioritizing Goals, Objectives and Investigations for Venus Exploration: (GOI), (2) the Roadmap for Venus Exploration (RVE) that is consistent with VEXAG priorities as well as Planetary Decadal Survey priorities, and (3) the Technology Plan for future Venus missions. Here, we present the 2018 Venus Technology Plan.

https://www.lpi.usra.edu/vexag/reports/Venus-Technology-Plan-DRAFT-V1.pdf

Of interest are the areas of:
2. High-Temperature Subsystems and Components for Long-Duration (months) Surface Operations
3. Aerial Platforms for Missions to Measure Atmospheric Chemical and Physical Properties
4. In Situ Instruments for Landed Missions

Draft 2014 - https://www.lpi.usra.edu/vexag/reports/Venus-Technology-Plan-140617.pdf

Draft 2019 - https://www.lpi.usra.edu/vexag/reports/Venus-Technology-Plan-Final-Draft-070119.pdf

pdf - https://www.nationalacademies.org/event/10-20-2020/docs/D25349F5A7C9976B74F8D803827E58401D75255C2C09

Enjoy reading and learning.
 
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  • #2
It looks like there is a lot of potential for using high-temperature systems and components for long-duration surface operations on Venus. The technology plan provides interesting insight into the aerial platforms that could be used for measuring atmospheric chemical and physical properties, as well as in situ instruments for landed missions. It would be interesting to see how these technologies could be applied to the feasibility of operating a nuclear reactor on Venus.
 
  • #3


I find the idea of operating a nuclear reactor on Venus to be quite intriguing. The extreme conditions on the planet definitely pose a challenge, but it seems like there are some potential solutions being explored, such as using an open Brayton cycle. It's also interesting to see how the VEXAG is prioritizing different technologies for future Venus missions. I'll definitely have to take a closer look at the 2018 Venus Technology Plan. Thanks for sharing these resources!
 

1. What is the purpose of the NASA Venus Technology Plan?

The purpose of the NASA Venus Technology Plan is to develop and implement advanced technologies that will enable future missions to Venus. These technologies will allow for more efficient and effective exploration of the planet and its atmosphere.

2. What are the main objectives of the NASA Venus Technology Plan?

The main objectives of the NASA Venus Technology Plan include developing technologies for improved entry, descent, and landing on Venus, enhancing the capabilities of spacecraft and instruments for data collection, and improving communication and navigation systems for missions to Venus.

3. How will the NASA Venus Technology Plan benefit future missions to Venus?

The NASA Venus Technology Plan will benefit future missions to Venus by providing advanced technologies that will allow for more precise and comprehensive data collection, improved communication and navigation capabilities, and increased safety and reliability of spacecraft during entry, descent, and landing.

4. What is the timeline for the implementation of the NASA Venus Technology Plan?

The NASA Venus Technology Plan is currently in draft form and is expected to be finalized in December 2018. The implementation of the plan will likely occur over the next several years, with specific timelines and milestones to be determined based on funding and resources.

5. How will the technologies developed through the NASA Venus Technology Plan be tested and evaluated?

The technologies developed through the NASA Venus Technology Plan will undergo rigorous testing and evaluation processes before being implemented in future missions to Venus. This may include simulations, ground testing, and in-orbit demonstrations to ensure the technologies are effective and reliable in the harsh conditions of Venus.

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