The Future of Space Propulsion

Significant challenges and advances in space propulsion have occurred over the past ten years. The end of the Cold War had significant impacts, both positive and negative. Operational systems now have to operate well beyond their design life. Parts and technology obsolescence are having a significant impact, as are an aging workforce and limited opportunities to develop new systems. The advent of asymmetric warfare is fully upon us. The military has to pro - ject power anywhere on the globe. In addition, there is concern that U.S. space assets are vulnerable in this new world. Furthermore, changes in acquisition policy driven by incredible cost and schedule overruns on nearly every space acquisition program will have significant impacts on the future of propulsion.