VASIMR plasma drive in GURPS...

GoblynByte · 06-24-2009, 04:41 PM

I need help from folks who understand this stuff better than I do.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variabl...oplasma_rocket

The drive presented here is supposedly capable of impulses up to 30,000 seconds and producing 300 km/s jet velocities. I'm just too dense to figure out the math of it all and how it would translate into GURPS starship construction.

Here is my question: assuming a 'mature' version of this type of engine, how does it compare to 'super science' drives of sci-fi movies? Would this be capable of producing low weight ships with high thrust or does it still run into the problem of massive fuel needs?

In other words, would a fully realized VASIMR drive be be used to create a sci-fi style space fighter?

06-24-2009, 04:41 PM	#1
GoblynByte Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Dayton, OH	VASIMR plasma drive in GURPS... I need help from folks who understand this stuff better than I do. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variabl...oplasma_rocket The drive presented here is supposedly capable of impulses up to 30,000 seconds and producing 300 km/s jet velocities. I'm just too dense to figure out the math of it all and how it would translate into GURPS starship construction. Here is my question: assuming a 'mature' version of this type of engine, how does it compare to 'super science' drives of sci-fi movies? Would this be capable of producing low weight ships with high thrust or does it still run into the problem of massive fuel needs? In other words, would a fully realized VASIMR drive be be used to create a sci-fi style space fighter? __________________ A man said to the universe: "Sir I exist!" "However," replied the universe, "The fact has not created in me A sense of obligation."

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Switch to Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Threaded Mode