Application of electromagnetic accelerators to space propulsion

Recent investigations of DC electric rail gun performance show that these devices are attractive for high acceleration launch to high velocity. Application of high performance electric rail guns to space propulsion is discussed in this paper. The parameters which may be used to characterize a spaceborne propulsion system are described. From a systems viewpoint, the components comprising a spaceborne propulsion system are described and the performance discussed. As an orbital transfer vehicle an electric rail gun propulsion system appears feasible and could provide attractive mission performance.