The fundamental capability of Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) is game changing for space exploration. A first generation Nuclear Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (NCPS) based on NTP could provide high thrust at a specific impulse above 900 s, roughly double that of state of the art chemical engines. Characteristics of fission and NTP indicate that useful first generation systems will provide a foundation for future systems with extremely high performance. The role of the NCPS in the development of advanced nuclear propulsion systems could be analogous to the role of the DC-3 in the development of advanced aviation. Progress made under the NCPS project could help enable both advanced NTP and advanced Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP).


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    Title :

    Nuclear Thermal Propulsion for Advanced Space Exploration


    Contributors:
    M. G. Houts (author) / S. K. Borowski (author) / J. A. George (author) / T. Kim (author) / W. J. Emrich (author)

    Publication date :

    2012


    Size :

    27 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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