What is Nuclear Propulsion System for rocket engine?
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A Nuclear Propulsion System for a rocket engine involves utilizing nuclear energy to heat a fluid, typically hydrogen, which is then expelled through a rocket nozzle to generate thrust. This system offers higher fuel efficiency, greater mission range, and the ability to abort missions safely. It has been studied extensively since the 1950s and is being considered for crewed missions to Mars by NASA. The system includes a reactor containing fissionable material, a neutron source, and a design to confine the fission reactions and heat transfer to the fluid for propulsion . Additionally, advancements in energy collection, storage, and utilization systems are being explored to enhance the specific impulse and thrust of rocket engines for deep space exploration and other space missions . Ground testing of Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) engines poses unique challenges due to environmental regulations, necessitating innovative approaches for testing to mitigate health and safety risks .
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15 Jul 2015 | Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) for rocket engines uses a nuclear reactor to heat hydrogen, producing thrust with high efficiency and potential radioactive waste containment challenges during ground testing. |
| Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) systems use nuclear fission to heat hydrogen for thrust in rocket engines, offering higher efficiency, longer mission range, and enhanced safety features compared to traditional propulsion systems. | |
| Not addressed in the paper. | |
| Not addressed in the paper. | |
| A nuclear thermal propulsion rocket engine utilizes fissionable material in fuel pebbles, moderated by fluids like methane, to generate heat for propulsive discharge, achieving specific impulses up to 2500 seconds. |
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