2023-11-24 06:15:29
The DRACO project to create a spacecraft with thermal nuclear propulsion continues. Now it can be said that the project is beginning to move forward and is no longer a mere theoretical idea.
Thermal nuclear propulsion is similar to chemical propulsion in that it achieves momentum by the force of the reaction by expelling very hot gas through a nozzle. However, instead of using chemical combustion, it uses nuclear fission (although in the future it could use nuclear fusion). The advantage of the nuclear route over the chemical one is that for the same weight it exerts a much greater thrust.
In a thermal nuclear rocket, a fission reactor is used to generate extremely high temperatures. The heat produced by the reactor is transferred to a liquid propellant, which expands and is ejected through a nozzle to propel the spacecraft. Thermal nuclear rockets can be three times more effective than conventional chemical propulsion rockets or even more.
Within the framework of the DRACO (Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations) project, NASA (US space agency) and DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, dependent on the US Department of Defense), signed a agreement to collaborate in the development of a thermal nuclear propulsion engine for large ships destined for the Moon and perhaps in the future, for manned ships destined for Mars.
Recently, DARPA and the Lockheed Martin company signed a contract by which said company has begun work on the design and manufacture of an experimental spacecraft with thermal nuclear propulsion, called X-NTRV.
Artist’s recreation of a spacecraft powered by the DRACO thermal nuclear propulsion system. (Illustration: DARPA)
The use of a thermal nuclear rocket allows for a shorter transit time, thanks to the higher speed it achieves. A shorter journey reduces the risk to astronauts. Reducing transit time is a key component for human missions to Mars, as longer journeys require more supplies and more robust systems to better withstand the test of time.
Other advantages of nuclear thermal propulsion for space travel include increased scientific payload capacity and greater electrical power for instrumentation and communications.
The US Space Force will provide the rocket by which the X-NTRV will be launched into space. Once in space, this experimental ship will be launched. For safety reasons, the ship’s nuclear fission reactor will only be activated when it is in the planned orbit.
Low-enriched uranium, supplied by the Department of Energy, will be used as nuclear fuel.
The DRACO program takes advantage of part of the work carried out in its day for the canceled American NERVA (Nuclear Engine for Rocket Vehicle Applications) project. However, the new design approach is less problematic.
If everything goes as planned, the demonstration of X-NTRV in space could take place in 2027. (Source: NCYT from Amazings)
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