NASA is developing a flyable nuclear thermal propulsion system

There have been a few different exciting developments in the nuclear physics space over the past few months and years. Between small reactors that are designed to power large towns and small cities, to the recent advancement in nuclear fusion, this dangerous yet highly impactful form of science has been fascinating to follow.

And in this vein, NASA has decided to delve into the nuclear space as well, as it has now signed a contract with the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to create a flyable nuclear thermal propulsion system

This system will hopefully allow NASA to better realise its goals of deep space travel and exploration, as well as putting humans on Mars. As the press release states, NASA administrator Bill Nelson adds:

"NASA will work with our long-term partner, DARPA, to develop and demonstrate advanced nuclear thermal propulsion technology as soon as 2027. With the help of this new technology, astronauts could journey to and from deep space faster than ever - a major capability to prepare for crewed missions to Mars."

It is also said that this technology will allow for greater payloads to be carried on missions, which should also expand the communication offering on spacecraft.

How the system will work will revolve around a nuclear fission reactor that will generate high temperatures, which can then be used to heat a liquid propellant to fuel and power a spacecraft. In theory, this should be three or more times more efficient than the systems used today.