Oxygen-methane combustion studies in the In Space Propulsion Programme

Abstract

In the frame of the European Framework programme 7 (FP7), the In-Space Propulsion (ISP-1) project was initiated in 2009 with the objective of improving knowledge and techniques required by future space missions relying on cryogenic propulsion. One of the work packages addresses remaining open issues for the use of oxygen and methane for in-space propulsion: liquid-liquid injection, ignition and combustion at low pressure, film cooling and soot formation. This paper describes the work performed during the fifteen first months. Through theoretical analysis, modelling and experimental work, this project will serve the purpose of improving the maturity of technologies which are key elements of cryogenic space propulsion systems