Research in Rocket and Jet Propulsion*

Dr. Hsue-shen Tsien

(Robert H. Goddard Professor, California Institute of Technology)

When considering the problems of basic research in rocket and jet propulsion, it is profitable to keep in mind the salient features of rocket-and jet-propulsion engineering. These are: short duration of operation of the powerplant and extreme intensity of reaction in the motor.

That the duration of operation of the powerplant is short stems from the high specific consumption of the propellant. On the other hand, the dry weight of the rocket engine is much lower than that of other engines of equal output. Therefore, the total installation weight (the sum of dry weight and propellant consumed) can be lower than other powerplants ...

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