NASA mission planning for space nuclear power

Abstract

As the human race moves outward into the solar system with both robotic and piloted spacecraft there will be an ever evolving need for nuclear power and eventually for nuclear propulsion. Studies have already been completed which show the scientific merits of such exciting missions as Jovian grand tours, Uranus and Neptune orbiters and probes and a Pluto flyby—missions which can only be accomplished with nuclear power. The Space Exploration Initiative with its goal of going to the Moon, Mars and beyond will benefit from nuclear reactors to power surface operations and radioisotope power sources for use in planetary surface rovers. In summary, NASA will continue to need nuclear power as it helps advance the human race into the solar system and beyond.