Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
Space Nuclear Power and Propulsion Technologies Poised for Operational Breakthrough
Space nuclear power and propulsion technologies are on the verge of a significant advancement after decades of development. However, consistent government funding will be essential to move from development to operational deployments, according to L3Harris executives. These nuclear systems, including both nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) and nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP), are nearing readiness for practical application in space missions.
“We are finally at the cusp for both nuclear electric propulsion and nuclear thermal propulsion,” stated Kristin Houston, president of space propulsion and power systems at L3Harris Technologies. “These solutions can be refined and prepared for flight within the next five years.”
Houston leads the business unit resulting from L3Harris’s acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne, a long-time supplier of space nuclear propulsion systems to NASA.
Several NASA initiatives are currently utilizing innovations in space nuclear technology, Houston noted.
L3Harris is providing the Multi-Mission Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (MMRTG) for NASA’s Dragonfly mission to Titan, Saturn’s largest moon. This mission is scheduled for launch in July 2028 and is expected to arrive in 2034.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
Power Generation Versus Propulsion
Space nuclear applications are broadly categorized into two main areas: power generation and propulsion.
For power generation, radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) convert heat from radioactive decay into electricity. These power sources are vital for missions venturing into deep space where solar energy becomes insufficient.
In terms of propulsion, there are two primary technologies under development:
-
Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP)
Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) utilizes a nuclear reactor to heat a propellant, typically liquid hydrogen. This heated propellant is then expelled through a nozzle to produce thrust. NTP systems offer high thrust capabilities, comparable to chemical rockets, but with enhanced efficiency.
-
Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP)
Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP) converts thermal energy from a nuclear reactor into electricity to power electric thrusters. While providing lower thrust compared to NTP, NEP offers exceptional efficiency, making it well-suited for sustained acceleration during long-duration space missions.
National Security and Scientific Exploration Applications
Houston emphasized that these technologies extend beyond scientific and exploratory purposes. “It improves strategic mobility by enabling quicker and more efficient spacecraft transportation, allowing for faster deployment and repositioning of assets in space,” she explained.
Nuclear propulsion technologies present considerable advantages for future missions to Mars, she added. Spacecraft employing nuclear thermal propulsion could reach Mars in roughly half the time compared to those using chemical engines, while NEP systems could effectively transport cargo vessels.
NASA and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) are jointly sponsoring the Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations (DRACO) initiative to test a nuclear thermal rocket engine in space.
William Sack, director of advanced space and power programs at L3Harris, highlighted the importance of demonstrations like DRACO to showcase the potential of nuclear thermal propulsion. He mentioned that L3Harris has developed its own NTP vehicle concept. “We anticipate being involved in future endeavors if NASA proceeds with programs like this for Mars or other destinations,” Sack stated.
Despite the promising future, Houston stressed that consistent government investment and leadership are critical to implementing these technologies and accelerating the expansion of the space economy.