10 Prospects and physical mechanisms for photonic space propulsion terms
The paper talk about deep space propulsion
efficiency
noun
the ratio of the useful work performed by a machine or in a process to the total energy expended or heat taken in.
"the boiler has an efficiency of 45 per cent
Example: However, a very low energy efficiency of such thrusters implies their use as secondary systems, mainly for attitude control87
it: efficienza
installed
verb
place or fix (equipment or machinery) in position ready for use.
Example: A design consisting of an immovable mirror installed near the laser beam generator has been proposed to re-reflect the laser beam several times back to the spacecraft.
it: installato
interplanetary
noun
situated or travelling between planets
Example: The feasibility of any interplanetary journey is critically linked to the efficiency of the associated propulsion system,
it: interplanetario
low-orbit
noun
A low Earth orbit (LEO) is, as the name suggests, an orbit that is relatively close to Earth's surface. It is normally at an altitude of less than 1000 km but could be as low as 160 km above Earth – which is low compared to other orbits, but still very far above Earth's surface.
Example: Unavoidable power losses could be compensated by increasing the emitted power, provided that the power requirements of the spacecraft are moderate compared with the power generation capabilities of the Earth-based or low-orbit residing stations.
it: orbita bassa
nuclear reactor
noun
an apparatus or structure in which fissile material can be made to undergo a controlled, self-sustaining nuclear reaction with the consequent release of energy.
Example: Notable advantages of this approach include possible external generation of power, that is, the main power source is not accelerated with the spacecraft and thus it could be large and/or dangerous for the crew, for example, a nuclear reactor;
it: reattore nucleare
photon
noun
a particle representing a quantum of light or other electromagnetic radiation. A photon carries energy proportional to the radiation frequency but has zero rest mass.
Example: Indeed, while a single reflection of a photon beam has the ability to produce a weak specific thrust of 3 μN kW–1 due to a very inefficient energy exchange between incident photons and spacecraft, there are no physical limitations on recycling pho- ton energy
it: fotone
solar sails
noun
a reflective surface designed to use the pressure of solar radiation to propel a spacecraft.
Example: Thrust systems that use light pressure and solar sails. The gentle pressure of solar light particles onto a surface, for example, a solar sail, can provide a persistent source of motion, which, when cap- tured correctly, may generate a sufficient net acceleration of the sail and the attached spacecraft in the chosen direction of travel
it: vele solari
spacecraft
noun
a vehicle used for travelling in space.
Example: spacecraft, where light provides a highly efficient means of trans- portation within the Solar System and, potentially, for interstellar travels.
it: navicella spaziale
thrust
thrust
the propulsive force of a jet or rocket engine
Example: electromagnetic radiation can provide spacecraft with a gentle yet persistent thrust for interplanetary and interstellar missions
it: Spinta
wavelength
noun
the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave.
Example: λ is the wavelength and D is the beam diameter, could be significant.
