Steam-Powered WINE Spaceprobes Refuel on Asteroids

Jan-15-19 The steam-powered WINE spacecraft from Honeybee Robotics relies on old technology for modern travel.

Developed in conjunction with the team from the University of Central Florida, the World Is Not Enough (WINE) spacecraft prototype could travel further into space by refueling itself with water from low-gravity asteroids, moons and planets. The spacecraft, about the size of a microwave oven, would use the water collected from the surfaces of these planetary bodies to generate steam, which it could then use as a propellant. The WINE craft would also be equipped with solar panels to power its mining and steam-making, as well as small radioisotopic decay units that could extend its reach to far-flung locations.

According to UCF planetary research scientist Phil Metzger, "WINE was designed to never run out of propellant so exploration will be less expensive. It also allows us to explore in a shorter amount of time, since we don't have to wait for years as a new spacecraft travels from Earth each time."

More Info about this Invention:

[FORBES.COM]
[TODAY.UCF.EDU]

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