NASA to test nuclear-powered engine for future Mars missions
Shortpedia
Content Team
Image Credit: DARPA)
NASA is planning to test nuclear-powered spacecraft that could, one day, support crewed missions to Mars. It intends to do so "as soon as 2027." The space agency has partnered with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to "develop and demonstrate advanced nuclear thermal propulsion technology." A nuclear thermal rocket would allow faster travel and ultimately reduce the risks posed to astronauts.
