Inflatable Concentrators for Solar Thermal Propulsion

Abstract
A solar thermal propulsion system with inflatable solar concentrators was originally described by Eliricke in 1956. This concept was further defined by Electro-Optical Systems, Inc. during the 1960's and by Rockwell International in 1979. The Solar Powered Rocket Engine is expected to produce specific impulses of i 900 to 1200 seconds. This is over two to three times that of conventional liquid hydrogenloxygen engines. This performance would significantly improve travel from low earth orbit to geostationary earth orbit and other planets.

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