Importance

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Abstract

Both chemical and nuclear rocket engines waste huge amounts of energy. This waste can be decreased by application of light-conducting structures. In case of chemical engine transparent walls of combustion chamber can allow to intercept generated light into light-conducting components. They can deflect photons trajectory in the same direction as a stream of exhaust gases. This can generate additional thrust. In case of thermonuclear photonic engine typical nuclear engine may be used as a fuel pump. Thermonuclear reaction is initiated in stream of thermonuclear fuel exiting nuclear engine. Light-conducting components intercept photons generated during this reaction. They can deflect photons trajectory in the same direction as a stream of exhaust gases. This can generate additional thrust. In both cases light-conducting structure is used to decrease loses of energy in typical rocket engines. Light conducting structure may be used to create antimatter photonic engine as well. In this case the antimatter portions are released into the chamber where they hit the stream of matter what causes annihilation. Light-conducting components intercept photons generated during this reaction. They can deflect photons trajectory in the same direction. This can generate the thrust. Light-conducting components can be made of optic fibers, but light-conducting surfaces can be used as well. Light conducting surfaces have to meet the following conditions: Photons generated during reaction enter into the structure according to the rule of complete internal reflection, Once photons enter the structure they are reflected many times, but always according to the rule of complete internal reflection, Curvature should assure correct flow direction after photons exit the structure. Light-conducting surfaces can help to organize flow of the coolant around hot regions of the engine. Application of light-conducting components to generate thrust of the engine is disclosed, as well as the shape of light-conducting components useful in this application, and cooling system that allows to keep safe temperature inside light-conducting components and recover additional amount of energy.

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First Claim