NASA NTRS · 20120014197
Nuclear Cryogenic Propulsion Stage
Abstract
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 NEP.
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Houts, Michael G., Borowski, S. K., George, J. A., Kim, T., Emrich, W. J., Hickman, R. R., Broadway, J. W., Gerrish, H. P., Adams, R. B.. 2012-03-21. Nuclear Cryogenic Propulsion Stage. https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/20120014197
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