Current Research

Research Module 1.0 Astronomical Target
Lead: Ian Crawford

Definition: The target system: including the primary and any secondary stars and any possible planets and belts of smaller bodies. The primary driver for the choice of target destination will be high science return: especially planetological and astrobiological data from the close up imaging of terrestrial planets or satellites.

Scope: Information concerning the known star systems within 15 LY will be gathered, assessed, and processed with a view to recommending several targets for the Icarus probe that appears reasonable within the context of present knowledge. The report produced for this module will be based on a table containing recent observational data for the solar neighbourhood, plus derived parameters to fill in gaps or unknowns where needed. Each star in the table will be linked to a text section where the nature of the star and its astrophysical points of interest are described. Astrophysical and astrobiological arguments concerning each system will also be deployed to speculatively assess its potential for hosting a life-bearing planet. The output of this module will serve as a tool to assist team members in their decision to select a nominal target for Project Icarus, with the caveat that its recommendations can only be regarded as speculative.

Research Module 2.0 Mission Analysis & Performance
Lead: Rob Adams

Definition: This includes a description of the mission profile and trajectory, along with vehicle boost periods, flight time, energy release, mass ratio, specific impulse and required vehicle performance (i.e. thrust) to achieve escape and eventual cruise velocity to the target.

Scope: This work should review several different options for the Icarus mission covering both the boost, cruise and deceleration phases. In particular, the options for gravity assist and the two-burn maneuver should be explored. Comparisons should be made to the Daedalus mission profile and various alternative mission profiles identified. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 3.0 Vehicle Configuration
Lead: Kelvin Long

Definition: This includes a complete description of the vehicle layout with all dimensions and components defined. Orthographic projections will be required as well as 3D models.

Scope: The total component and mass breakdown of the Daedalus vehicle should be compiled. Several engineering sketch options for alternative vehicle layouts within the existing Daedalus configuration should be explored. This is then to be extended to include potential modifications that could be made upon down select to the Icarus configuration, based upon some of the ideas already emerging. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 4.0 Primary Propulsion
Lead: Richard Obousy

Definition: The primary propulsion module will cover all aspects of the Icarus vehicle acceleration. Major areas of study will include confirmation that ICF pulse fusion is the most effective fusion propulsion mechanism with comparison studies against magnetic, IEC and the Marx generator systems. In addition, a determination of the optimum driver will be performed with a focus on lasers, ion and electron drivers. A study of exotic drivers will also be performed, for example di-positronium lasers and wakefield accelerators. Another important research feature for primary propulsion will be the possible capsule designs for any ICF system with relevant simulations. A detailed study of antimatter catalysed fusion will be performed, and its utility, integration and possible optimising effects on fusion propulsion. Studies will also be performed on the recent suggestion that an ultra-dense form of Deuterium exists, and the validity of this claim will be determined. If this should be true then this will have significant repercussions on the Icarus design. A study of the efficacy of the Oberth 2 burn manoeuvre will be performed, including a parametric study on the specific impulse, specific power and mission time vs. interstellar escape velocity. A study of engine components will also be performed including a study of the chambers, valves, tanks and nozzles. Finally, a study of the field coils will be undertaken as well as research into possible methods designed to bootstrap the electromagnetic current generated by nuclear pulse to run subsequent ignition cycles.

Scope: A major exploration of fusion based propulsion will be explored beginning with a study of the original Daedalus design and a determination of areas where technology has advanced such that the original design can be improved and/or optimized. Areas of focus include ignition systems, field coil arrangements and nuclear pulse current bootstrapping, the utility of antimatter catalysed fusion and an analysis of exotic drivers, for example x-ray lasers and Wakefield accelerators. For each component, the expected performance will be analysed and options for performance gain will be identified. An exhaustive study of current fusion systems will be performed along with possible alternatives to the pulsed fusion concept (the Polywell for example). In addition, the Oberth 2 burn manoeuvre will also be studies in an effort to optimize dv. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 5.0 Secondary Propulsion
Lead: Andreas Tziolas

Definition: Secondary propulsion systems are all supplementary propulsion methods appropriate to interstellar missions. This includes any backup propulsion systems which have the main function of accelerating the vehicle to a higher velocity. This may also include redundant attitude and control methods and in general any auxiliary propulsion systems which have the main function of orbital thrusting and control.

Scope: A review will be conducted into various options for supplementary boost mechanisms and orbital/trajectory correction systems. Contemporary as well as near-future and innovative thrusters used in modern spacecraft are eligible. Inclusive in this study are the particular features of the fuel method used by the propulsion device and its usefulness within the scope of interstellar mission timelines. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 6.0 Fuel & Fuel Acquisition
Lead: Adam Crowl

Definition: This includes what fuels are used for the primary and secondary propulsion as well as the availability and acquisition of those fuels (i.e. from Jupiter atmosphere) and an assessment of the technology and infrastructure required to obtain them. Fuel storage issues, during boost-phase, cruise and braking phases should also be considered.

Scope: During this work many options for fusion based fuels should be identified. Acquisition and mining techniques should also be discussed. These should include novel fuels such as ultradense Deuterium or antiprotons and their storage. Recommendations for several preferred fuel and mining options should be made. Possibility for refuelling in the target system and the minimum requirements for useful ISRU should be examined. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 7.0 Structures & Materials
Lead: Adam Crowl

Definition: This includes a description of all of the materials used in the vehicle, their mechanical properties and response to the exposed internal and external environment (i.e. pressure). Some consideration should be given to the manufacture of novel materials and the in-situ acquisition and manufacture of replacement materials by the probe.

Scope: A thorough review of historical, modern and future materials technologies should be conducted. The requirements for deep space missions of decades long duration should be identified. Several candidate materials for the different structures used in the Daedalus configuration should be given. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 8.0 Power Systems
Lead: Andy Presby

Definition: This includes the design of any electrical systems on board including power generation, storage, management, distribution and control. This module could also include a discussion of electromagnetic compatibility engineering.

Scope: A review is to be conducted into the various types of power systems there are that could be used in an Icarus type mission. This review is to include space nuclear reactor technology. A review should also be conducted into what historical and modern spacecraft use for power supply. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 9.0 Communications & Telemetry
Lead: Pat Galea

Definition: This includes transponders, antennas and equipment for signal production, amplification and transmission. Consideration should be given to transmitter bandwidth, range and power output requirements. Some work should also be done to address the issue of radio signal attenuation at long distances from ground control, and transmitter alignment with the receiving station.

Scope: A thorough review should be conducted into the technology to be used for interstellar space communications. This is to include the physical properties of radio propagation, associated technology and other potential transmission mechanisms such as lasers. The review should also consider bandwidth, data management requirements and accurate aiming of the transmitter as well as novel methods of assisting long distance communications such as by using relay stations or exploiting the gravitational lens of the Sun and/or the target star. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 10.0 Navigation & Guidance Control
Lead: Rob Swinney

Definition: This includes vehicle attitude control and response and a considering of some of the technology that could be used for this purpose, linked with the secondary propulsion module.

Scope: A review should be conducted into the vehicle requirements for attitude control systems. This should include a review of Daedalus and potential changes identified based upon current or near future technology. The technology to be used for vehicle autonomous navigation should also be explored. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 11.0 Computing & Data Management
Lead: Andreas Tziolas

Definition: The computing needs appropriate to an interstellar mission are explored. Processing methods, processor architectures, information nodes, data storage, backup and analysis modules are reviewed. An essential aspect of this design, given the accelerated rate at which processing capabilities are escalating, is the error catching and command redundancy which must be applied. In addition, hardware/software issues are addressed, with a flexible code design which will allow for in-transit updates to be performed.

Scope: A review should be conducted into the current state of art in computing technology useful for space missions. This review should be extended to include linear extrapolation of near-future technology and artificial intelligence systems that could be employed. A distributive computing architecture relating to both the hardware and the software of this machine is envisioned, with supporting studies on this subject planned. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 12.0 Environment Control
Lead: Andy Presby

Definition: This includes protection and environmental control of all systems from mission thermal, particle, and electromagnetic environment and likely exposures internally to thermal gradients and self generated electromagnetic fields.

Scope: A review should be conducted into the internal environment control requirements and associated technology. A review should also be conducted into the externally applied environmental factors. Requirements for environment control and mitigation should be identified. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 13.0 Ground Station & Monitoring
Lead: Pat Galea

Definition: This includes consideration for long term monitoring of vehicle systems and observations, mission performance, as well as a capability to upload instructions for changes in mission parameters. The monitoring station could be earth based, space based or other.

Scope: A review should be conducted of ground based operations for use in monitoring and controlling historical deep space probes. The core facilities and requirements should then be scaled for an interstellar mission, or appropriate novel alternatives examined. Options for long distance control and monitoring should be explored. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 14.0 Science
Lead: Ian Crawford

Definition: This includes all of the necessary solar and planetary science that would be undertaken by the Icarus design. Consideration should be given to the potential for in flight science capture such as at Jupiter flyby or the Kuiper belt, measurements at the solar terminal shock layer, addressing the Pioneer anomaly or optical measurements at the Focal Point. The determination of science data is a key driver for Project Icarus.

Scope: A review is to be conducted into the likely science drivers to motivate such a mission as Icarus. This should include reference to historical interplanetary probes. The core scientific returns of an interstellar mission should be identified and prioritised to inform the instrument technology that may be required. Consideration should also be given as the the type and number of different probes to be included assuming arrival at the target star and associated planets. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 15.0 Instruments & Payload
Lead: Kelvin Long

Definition: This includes the design of any instruments required, including imaging technology. For minimisation of payload mass, the number of instruments may need to be minimised, but designed with high reliability. This module will also cover payload issues, where instruments are assigned payload status.

Scope: This should include a review of the types of instruments that could be used on an Icarus mission and linked with the key science drivers identified from the science module. Consideration should be given to the effect of different payload masses on the overall vehicle performance, assuming a Daedalus configuration. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 16.0 Mechanisms
Lead: Phillip Reiss

Definition: This includes mechanisms such as gyroscopes for guidance and control, robotic arms for external repair, any kind of deployable device such as aids for braking or solar energy conversion and thrust vectoring mechanisms. Consideration should be given to the components, their integration into the spacecraft and their mechanical properties.

Scope: A review is to be conducted into the types of mechanisms used on Daedalus and others that could be used on Icarus. This review should include references to historical spacecraft and consideration of novel technologies such as for robotic arm repairs or MagSail breaking. The purpose, functionality and ideas for vehicle location for these different mechanisms should be identified. A stress on the long-term properties under the extreme conditions of an interstellar mission shall be made. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 17.0 Vehicle Assembly
Lead: Richard Osborne

Definition: This includes a description of the likely assembly procedure for the Icarus vehicle, be it in orbit or on ground. If the vehicle is to be assembled in orbit, consideration should be given to what launch vehicles would be appropriate and how many are required.

Scope: Several options for the mission architecture should be defined, from vehicle manufacturing to assembly. This should include options based upon current state of the art technology as well as future technology based upon linear extrapolation only. Novel architecture options should also be discussed such as the use of a space elevator. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 18.0 Vehicle Risk & Repair
Lead: Andreas Tziolas

Definition: This includes internal and external, such as from micrometeroid or dust impact hazards, radiation shielding from high energy particles generated in nuclear fuel reactions, space environment. Protocols will be designed which describe deliverables from other modules/subsystems to be folded into a full scope risk and repair simulation. Methods for on board automated repair systems are included in these studies (e.g. wardens, robotic arms, etc).

Scope: A review should be conducted into the potential failure modes of the Icarus mission. A preliminary reliability analysis for a Daedalus-like mission should be performed. This requires the identification and review of both internal and external risks to the mission. The technology that could be used to mitigate these risks should be discussed. A failure-rate-analysis simulation will be designed, with early code written, which can be used to validate changes to other modules as they emerge. The range of robotic hardware which can be used for on-board repair will also be reviewed. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 19.0 Design Realisation & Technological Maturity
Lead: Andreas Hein

Definition: This describes the key steps to achieving the assembly and launch of the Icarus vehicle and may or may not have associated timescales. The technological maturity of the Icarus design should be ‘measured’.

Scope: This review should link into the mission architecture assessments and discuss the technologies and associated fruition timescale to enable such as architectures. Considerations for different technological roadmaps to attain these different architectures should also be discussed. From this study several potential dates for the mission assembly and launch should be identified. Consideration should also be given to how the technological readiness of Daedalus-Icarus type propulsion systems can be measured near the end of the project. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).

Research Module 20.0 Design Certification
Lead: Kelvin Long

Definition: This includes the qualification that the theoretical design is based upon sounds principles of science and will work in principle. Relevant failure modes are to be considered such as margin, redundancy, reliability of technology. Because Icarus would be a deep space long duration mission, it is likely that larger performance margins will be required to minimise system failures.

Scope: This initial work should consider the different ways that the final design solution can be certified as having met the initial engineering requirements (ToR) and that a credible engineering solution has been produced. Specific research topics for the concept design phase are described in the project programme document (PPD).