General Atomics, in partnership with NASA, recently tested a new nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) reactor fuel at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. The tests demonstrated that the fuel can endure extreme space conditions, reaching temperatures up to 3,000 Kelvin. This advancement could lead to NTP systems that are two to three times more efficient than current rocket technologies. Faster transit times provided by NTP could minimize risks for astronauts, reducing exposure to cosmic radiation and the need for extensive supplies on long missions. A demonstration mission could occur as early as 2027.
What do you think are the biggest challenges that still need to be overcome for nuclear thermal propulsion to become a viable option for space travel?
Source: https://www.space.com/space-explora...uclear-fuel-for-future-moon-and-mars-missions
What do you think are the biggest challenges that still need to be overcome for nuclear thermal propulsion to become a viable option for space travel?
Source: https://www.space.com/space-explora...uclear-fuel-for-future-moon-and-mars-missions