Articles tagged with "nuclear-propulsion"
Photos: NASA aces first flight reactor cold-flow tests since 1960s for deep space travel
NASA has successfully completed its first cold-flow test campaign since the 1960s for a flight reactor engineering development unit, marking a significant advancement in nuclear propulsion and power technologies critical for deep space exploration. Conducted at the Marshall Space Flight Center, these tests involved over 100 runs on a full-scale, non-nuclear test article built by BWX Technologies, simulating propellant flow under various operational conditions. The data gathered helps engineers understand fluid dynamics and reactor stability, confirming the design’s resistance to flow-induced oscillations and vibrations, which are vital for mission safety. This milestone results from a multi-year collaboration between NASA and industry partners aimed at developing flight-capable nuclear propulsion systems. Nuclear technology promises faster travel times, increased payload capacity, and enhanced communication capabilities, enabling more complex and data-intensive missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The successful testing campaign provides essential technical data required to transition the technology from development toward practical application, supporting NASA’s long-term goals for sustained human and scientific exploration
energynuclear-propulsionspace-technologyNASAreactor-testingdeep-space-travelfluid-dynamicsHeat-powered nuclear engines could double efficiency for Mars rockets
MIT master’s student Taylor Hampson is advancing research on nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) rockets through a NASA-sponsored initiative, aiming to significantly improve space travel to Mars. NTP systems use nuclear energy to heat a propellant like hydrogen to extremely high temperatures, producing thrust with twice or more the efficiency of conventional chemical rockets. This increased efficiency, measured as specific impulse, could reduce Mars transit times from the current seven to eight months to roughly half, thereby lowering astronauts’ exposure to harmful microgravity and cosmic radiation during long-duration missions. Hampson’s work involves modeling the entire NTP engine system—including tanks, pumps, and other components—to understand the complex interactions of temperature, pressure, thermodynamics, and neutronics. His approach uses a simplified one-dimensional model to speed simulations while capturing critical system-wide effects. Key challenges include managing rapid temperature spikes during engine startup, which risk material failure, and handling residual decay heat during shutdown. Despite the technical promise, the high development costs and lack of
energynuclear-propulsionMars-rocketsspace-explorationnuclear-thermal-propulsionrocket-efficiencyNASAHow nuclear propulsion shaped early interstellar vehicle design
The article explores how nuclear propulsion technologies influenced the early design of interstellar spacecraft, particularly during the Cold War era. With the realization that the Milky Way contains hundreds of billions of stars and potentially up to a trillion planets, scientists began seriously considering interstellar travel. Early spacecraft concepts from the mid-20th century were large, ambitious, and costly, but over time designs have shifted toward smaller, automated probes requiring minimal human intervention. The Cold War period (1950–1963) was pivotal, as breakthroughs in nuclear fission and fusion reactors spurred efforts by the U.S. and USSR to develop nuclear rocket propulsion systems. Three main categories of nuclear propulsion emerged: External Nuclear Rockets (ENRs), which use nuclear explosions outside the spacecraft to generate thrust but produce hazardous radiation; Internal Nuclear Rockets (INRs), which use a contained fission reactor to heat propellant or generate electricity but lack the power to escape the Solar System; and Fission-Fragment Rockets (FFRs), which use
energynuclear-propulsioninterstellar-spacecraftspace-technologyfusion-reactorsrocket-enginesspace-explorationBritain is preparing ocean-based support for its doomsday submarines
The United Kingdom is advancing plans to build floating dry docks at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland to support its fleet of nuclear missile submarines, particularly as it prepares to introduce the next-generation Dreadnought-class submarines. Known as Programme Euston, this initiative aims to alleviate maintenance capacity constraints by providing enhanced out-of-water support for the Royal Navy’s submarines, including the current Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines, Astute-class attack submarines, and the forthcoming Dreadnought class. The Ministry of Defence has entered the early development phase of the project, with a manufacturing contract to be awarded after finalizing technical specifications and completing procurement, though no timeline has been specified. The Dreadnought-class submarines, central to the UK’s nuclear deterrent, will displace about 17,200 metric tons, measure approximately 153.6 meters in length, and carry a crew of around 130 personnel. They will be equipped with 12 Trident II D5 ballistic
energynuclear-propulsionsubmarinesnaval-technologyfloating-dry-docksmilitary-technologyUK-defenseWhy refueling a nuclear submarine can take more than three years
Refueling a nuclear submarine is an exceptionally complex and time-consuming process that can take up to three years or more. Unlike conventional refueling, nuclear submarine refueling involves removing the vessel from water, powering it down, and accessing the reactor core, which is deeply embedded within the submarine’s hull and shielded for radiation protection. This requires dismantling major components, including shielding, panels, cables, and bolts, all meticulously logged and inspected by a specialized team of experts in radiation safety, nuclear engineering, and naval architecture. The intricate nature of this operation, combined with the need for a radiation-shielded facility, contributes to its high cost and lengthy duration. The actual refueling involves replacing the highly enriched uranium fuel in the reactor core, but this is not the primary reason submarines resurface, as a small amount of fuel can power them for decades. Instead, refueling periods are often used to perform extensive overhauls and upgrades to the submarine’s systems to keep pace with evolving military technologies
energynuclear-energysubmarine-technologynuclear-reactorsnaval-engineeringnuclear-propulsionreactor-refuelingFrance to develop Europe's biggest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
France has officially announced plans to build a new, larger nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération (PANG), to replace its aging Charles de Gaulle. President Emmanuel Macron revealed the decision during a visit to French troops in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the carrier’s strategic importance for France’s maritime power projection and nuclear deterrence. The PANG is projected to cost around €10.25 billion ($12 billion) and is expected to enter service by 2038, coinciding with the retirement of the Charles de Gaulle. This vessel will be the largest warship ever built in Europe, reinforcing France’s position as the EU’s only nuclear-armed state operating a nuclear-powered carrier. The program also aims to bolster France’s industrial base, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises. The PANG will be significantly larger than its predecessor, displacing about 78,000 tonnes compared to the Charles de Gaulle’s 42,000 tonnes, and measuring approximately 310 meters in length with
energynuclear-propulsionaircraft-carriermaritime-powerdefense-technologyelectrified-power-systemnaval-engineeringChina plans world's first nuclear ship to carry 25,000 containers
China plans to develop the world’s first nuclear-powered container ship capable of carrying 25,000 containers, a project led by state-owned Jiangnan Shipyard. The vessel will be powered by a thorium-based molten salt nuclear reactor with a 200-megawatt output, classified as a fourth-generation nuclear system with an expected 40-year lifespan. Construction could begin in about 10 years, and Jiangnan aims to invest in specialized shipyards for nuclear-powered commercial vessels. This initiative represents a significant innovation in commercial shipping, which has yet to see nuclear propulsion used in large merchant container ships. The nuclear-powered ship promises several advantages, including zero carbon emissions during operation, extended range without refueling, lower long-term fuel costs, and higher cruising speeds compared to conventional ships. However, regulatory challenges remain unresolved, as it is unclear which authorities would approve the construction and operation of such vessels, making large-scale deployment uncertain. This development comes amid declining Chinese shipbuilding orders and increased geopolitical competition, particularly
energynuclear-powershippingmaritime-technologyclean-energynuclear-propulsioncontainer-shipsChina may be making its first nuclear aircraft carrier as images leak
Recent satellite imagery and photos suggest that China is constructing its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the Type 004, at the Dalian shipyard. This development follows the recent commissioning of the Fujian, China’s third carrier, and marks a significant advancement in Beijing’s naval capabilities. Analysts note that the Type 004’s hull includes a structure resembling a nuclear reactor containment unit, indicating nuclear propulsion rather than conventional fuel. The carrier’s design also appears to incorporate multiple electromagnetic catapults similar to those on U.S. Nimitz and Ford-class carriers, potentially allowing higher sortie rates and heavier aircraft launches. The introduction of nuclear propulsion would grant the Type 004 virtually unlimited range and greater electrical power to support advanced radar, weapons, and aircraft launch systems, narrowing the technological gap with the U.S. Navy, which currently operates 11 nuclear supercarriers. The future air wing for the Type 004 is expected to include stealth fighters like the J-35, upgraded J-15s, early
energynuclear-propulsionaircraft-carrierChina-navymaritime-technologyelectromagnetic-catapultmilitary-technologyRussia tests underwater nuclear drone amid rising tension with US
Russia has successfully tested its nuclear-powered underwater drone, Poseidon, according to President Vladimir Putin. The Poseidon is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and is described as unmatched in speed and operating depth, with Putin claiming it "cannot be intercepted." This test marks the first time the drone was launched from its carrier submarine and its nuclear power unit was activated, allowing it to operate autonomously for a period. The drone’s nuclear reactor is notably compact—100 times smaller than those on submarines—yet powerful enough to deliver a warhead significantly stronger than Russia’s advanced Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile. Unveiled in 2018, Poseidon is designed as a strategic deterrent and is often characterized as a doomsday weapon intended to create massive radioactive tsunamis by detonating near coastal targets. It can reportedly travel at speeds up to 200 km/h (124 mph), far exceeding traditional torpedoes and warships, and its nuclear propulsion grants it virtually unlimited range, making
robotnuclear-propulsionunderwater-dronemilitary-technologyunmanned-vehiclestrategic-deterrentnuclear-energy9 forgotten nuclear inventions from the Atomic Age
The article explores nine ambitious but ultimately abandoned nuclear inventions from the Atomic Age, a period marked by optimism about nuclear power’s potential beyond weaponry. Driven by Cold War competition, engineers sought to harness nuclear energy for various applications, including transportation and warfare. Among these was the Convair NB-36H “Crusader,” an experimental aircraft that carried an onboard nuclear reactor to study radiation shielding and safety for future nuclear-powered flight. Despite 47 test flights, safety concerns about reactor containment in crashes led to the program’s cancellation in 1957. Another notable project was “Project Orion,” which proposed propelling spacecraft using controlled nuclear explosions against a shock-absorbing plate, promising rapid interplanetary and interstellar travel. However, the 1963 Partial Test Ban Treaty banning nuclear explosions in space ended this visionary concept. Other innovations included the Chrysler TV-8, a conceptual nuclear-powered tank with amphibious capabilities and a modular turret housing crew and engine components, which was shelved in 195
energynuclear-poweratomic-agenuclear-propulsionnuclear-reactorCold-War-technologynuclear-innovationsRussia flexes nuclear muscle with 8,700-mile cruise missile test
Russia has announced a significant test of its experimental nuclear-powered cruise missile, the 9M730 Burevestnik (NATO codename SSC-X-9 “Skyfall”), claiming it flew nonstop for 15 hours over approximately 8,700 miles (14,000 kilometers) powered by a compact onboard nuclear reactor. This test, disclosed on October 21, 2025, was publicized alongside large-scale Russian nuclear drills and touted by state media as evidence of advanced development. However, no independent verification—such as satellite imagery or international monitoring—has confirmed the flight, and Western defense officials remain skeptical, viewing the announcement more as a demonstration of resolve than a confirmed technical breakthrough. Past Burevestnik tests have been inconsistent, including a 2019 accident at the Nyonoksa test range that caused fatalities and a radiation spike, linked to the missile’s development. The Burevestnik revives Cold War-era concepts, drawing inspiration from the U.S. Project Pluto of
energynuclear-propulsionmissile-technologyBurevestniknuclear-reactordefense-technologyRussiaItaly could deploy world's first nuclear carrier for 6th-gen fighters
Italy plans to begin studying the development of its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, known as the Portaerei di Nuova Generazione (New Generation Aircraft Carrier), starting in 2026. This initiative is part of a long-term modernization plan for the Italian Navy extending to 2040. The envisioned carrier will feature nuclear propulsion, electromagnetic catapults (EMALS), advanced cyber-protected systems, and full integration of manned and unmanned platforms. The design phase is currently under evaluation, with the Italian Navy aiming to incorporate enhanced cyber defense and unmanned system capabilities in all new vessels. The new carrier is intended to operate sixth-generation fighter jets, with potential aircraft options including the US-built F-35C, a future US Navy sixth-generation fighter, or a navalized variant of the trinational Global Combat Air Program (GCAP). This vessel would complement Italy’s existing carriers, Cavour and Trieste, which currently operate F-35B fighters. The feasibility studies for the carrier will be
energynuclear-propulsionaircraft-carrierelectromagnetic-catapultunmanned-systemscyber-defensenaval-technologyUS finishes initial trials of 10,200-ton nuclear super submarine
The US Navy has successfully completed the initial sea trials of the Virginia-class nuclear attack submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798), a 10,200-ton vessel and the 25th in its class. Built by Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding division, the submarine underwent a series of tests including its first submergence and high-speed maneuvers both on the surface and underwater. These trials mark a significant milestone before the submarine’s formal delivery to the Navy. Massachusetts, christened in May 2023, will soon join the Navy’s fast-attack fleet, enhancing its operational capabilities. Virginia-class submarines are highly advanced, versatile platforms designed for a wide range of missions such as anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, Tomahawk missile strikes, intelligence gathering, mine warfare, and Special Operations Forces deployment. Powered by nuclear reactors, they offer superior stealth, mobility, and endurance compared to conventional submarines. The class replaces the aging Los Angeles-class submarines and incorporates modular
energynuclear-propulsionsubmarine-technologynaval-engineeringVirginia-class-submarinesmissile-systemsstealth-technologyIndia's new submarines to get 200-MWe nuclear reactor to boost power
India is developing a new 200-MWe nuclear reactor at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to power its next-generation submarines, including the S5 Nuclear Class Submarine and six planned Nuclear Attack Submarines (Project 77). This pressurized light-water reactor fueled by enriched uranium is highly fuel-efficient, capable of operating up to ten years without refueling. The design and simulation phases are complete, and production is imminent. This reactor will significantly enhance India’s submarine capabilities by providing higher speed, longer range, and improved stealth compared to the current 83-MWe reactors used in submarines like INS Arihant and INS Arighaat. The upgrade aims to bolster India’s strategic defense posture amid China’s rapidly expanding and technologically advanced nuclear submarine fleet, which is expected to become the world’s largest by 2030. The S5-class submarines, with a displacement of 13,000 tons and armed with 12 to 16 K-5 submarine-la
energynuclear-reactorsubmarine-technologynaval-powernuclear-propulsiondefense-technologyIndia-NavyNorth Korea possibly received nuclear reactor for submarine from Russia
South Korean military intelligence has reported that Russia may have supplied North Korea with nuclear reactor modules suitable for submarine propulsion, potentially including complete functioning reactors. These modules, possibly delivered in the first half of 2024, are believed to have been taken from decommissioned Russian submarines and include critical components such as reactors, turbines, and cooling systems. Since 2023, North Korea has reportedly been persistently requesting nuclear submarine technology and advanced fighter jets from Russia, with Moscow initially hesitant but seemingly agreeing to provide the submarine technology this year. Nuclear submarines, powered by pressurized water reactors, offer significant stealth advantages as they can operate submerged for long periods and are difficult to detect by conventional sonar or radar, though they emit a heat signature from their reactors. Possession of such technology would substantially enhance North Korea’s military capabilities, enabling covert operations in enemy territories and posing a serious threat to South Korea and potentially the United States. While North Korea may lack the indigenous capability to build nuclear submarines independently
energynuclear-reactorsubmarine-technologynuclear-propulsionmilitary-technologystealth-vesselsnuclear-energyUS team develops nuclear propulsion concept to shorten Mars trip
Ohio State University engineers have developed a novel nuclear thermal propulsion concept called the centrifugal nuclear thermal rocket (CNTR), which uses liquid uranium to directly heat rocket propellant. This design aims to double the efficiency of conventional nuclear thermal rockets, achieving a specific impulse of around 1800 seconds—significantly higher than the 450 seconds typical of chemical engines and 900 seconds of older nuclear models. The enhanced efficiency could reduce round-trip Mars missions to approximately 420 days, with the potential for one-way trips in just six months, thereby addressing the critical issue of prolonged astronaut exposure to space hazards. Beyond Mars, the CNTR’s powerful thrust and flexibility in propellant choice—including ammonia, methane, propane, or hydrazine—could enable faster missions to outer planets and Kuiper Belt objects, supporting both crewed and robotic exploration. The ability to utilize in-space resources could also facilitate sustainable space presence. However, the technology faces significant engineering challenges such as ensuring stable engine operation, minimizing uranium fuel loss
energynuclear-propulsionspace-explorationMars-missionrocket-technologyliquid-uraniumthermal-rocketKorea approves world-first LNG carrier powered by molten salt reactor
South Korea has approved the world’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier powered by a small modular molten salt reactor (MSR), marking a significant advancement in clean maritime propulsion. Developed collaboratively by the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) and Samsung Heavy Industries, the vessel received an Approval in Principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping and the Liberian flag state on September 9, 2025. This certification confirms that the ship’s design, featuring a 100-megawatt thermal molten salt reactor, complies with international safety and regulatory standards. The MSR technology is notable for using a liquid fuel mixture of nuclear material and molten salt, differing from traditional solid-fuel reactors, and is designed to operate throughout the ship’s entire lifespan without refueling. The molten salt reactor offers high safety, excellent energy efficiency, and the potential to reduce maintenance and operational interruptions typically associated with conventional nuclear propulsion systems. This innovation aims to contribute to carbon neutrality in the
energymolten-salt-reactorLNG-carriernuclear-propulsionclean-maritime-technologysmall-modular-reactorKorea-Atomic-Energy-Research-Institute20,800-ton future submarine could be survivable leg of US nuclear triad
Construction has begun on the USS Wisconsin (SSBN 827), a 20,800-ton Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine that will serve as a survivable leg of the U.S. nuclear triad. This vessel, the second of its class following the USS District of Columbia, is designed specifically for stealth and will replace the aging Ohio-class submarines. Ballistic missile submarines, often called "boomers," provide an undetectable launch platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles, ensuring a credible second-strike capability and forming the backbone of the U.S. strategic deterrence strategy. The keel-laying ceremony took place on August 27, 2025, at General Dynamics Electric Boat’s Quonset Point facility in Rhode Island, with over 300 defense contractors and suppliers from Wisconsin supporting the submarine’s development. The USS Wisconsin will be operated by two crews, Blue and Gold, who will maintain and operate the nuclear-powered vessel to fulfill its mission of deterrence. The Columbia-class program
energynuclear-propulsionsubmarine-technologydefense-contractorsstealth-technologystrategic-deterrencenaval-engineeringIndia tests 3,000-mile nuclear missile that can hit China, Europe
India successfully test-fired its Agni-5 ballistic missile on August 20, 2025, marking a significant advancement in its long-range nuclear strike capabilities. The missile, with a range of approximately 3,100 miles (5,000 kilometers), can target nearly all of China and parts of Europe. Developed by the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Agni-5 features a three-stage solid-fuel propulsion system and lightweight composite motor casings, enhancing its range and efficiency. This missile is the longest-range weapon in India’s operational arsenal and serves as the backbone of its nuclear deterrence strategy. The test also highlights India’s progress in Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, demonstrated in a prior flight test of an Agni-5 MIRV variant called Mission Divyastra. MIRV capability allows a single missile to carry multiple warheads aimed at separate targets, complicating missile defense efforts and placing India among a select group of nations
materialsenergydefense-technologymissile-technologynuclear-propulsioncomposite-materialssolid-fuel-propulsionNuclear propulsion, solar sails could help reach Sedna in 7 years
Scientists from Italy have proposed two experimental spacecraft propulsion concepts—a nuclear fusion rocket and a solar sail—to reach the distant dwarf planet Sedna in as little as seven years. Sedna, discovered in 2003 and named after an Inuit goddess, orbits the Sun once every 10,000 years and will be at its closest approach (perihelion) of about 7 billion miles in 2076. This rare opportunity could enable a mission to study Sedna, which remains largely mysterious and holds clues about the early solar system. The proposed propulsion methods could reduce travel time by over 50% compared to traditional spacecraft, potentially enabling a mission duration between seven and ten years. The first concept, the Direct Fusion Drive (DFD) rocket engine under development at Princeton University, would generate thrust and electrical power from controlled nuclear fusion, offering continuous acceleration and a high thrust-to-weight ratio. However, challenges such as plasma stability and heat dissipation remain. The second concept involves a solar sail that harness
nuclear-propulsionsolar-sailsspace-explorationfusion-rocketspacecraft-technologydeep-space-traveladvanced-propulsion-systemsNASA's nuclear rocket program canceled as Trump budget slashes space science
The Trump administration’s proposed NASA budget for fiscal year 2026 includes drastic cuts to space science funding, slashing it from $7.5 billion in 2025 to $3.9 billion. Among the programs targeted for elimination is DRACO, a nuclear thermal propulsion demonstrator developed by NASA and DARPA. DRACO was designed to use a nuclear reactor to heat liquid hydrogen fuel to extremely high temperatures, potentially doubling the efficiency of traditional chemical rockets and significantly reducing travel times for deep space missions, such as trips to Mars. The cancellation comes despite DRACO nearing its estimated launch date and reflects a broader pattern of prioritizing projects with quicker political or financial returns over long-term, generational technologies. The budget proposal has faced strong criticism from scientists, lawmakers, and space policy experts who warn that such cuts could lead to a decline in U.S. leadership in space exploration. NASA’s acting administrator, Janet Petro, justified ending nuclear propulsion projects by stating that near-term human exploration and science goals do
energynuclear-propulsionNASAspace-technologyDRACOspacecraftspace-explorationDutch firm eyes nuclear power propulsion for greener cargo fleet
energynuclear-propulsioncarbon-emissionssmall-modular-reactorsoffshore-vesselssustainable-shippingdecarbonizationNuclear electric propulsion may reduce transit times to outer planets
energynuclear-propulsiondeep-space-explorationpower-systemsfission-technologyspace-travelreliability