NASA wants to build nuclear-powered Mars rockets

It could then potentially be used for future crewed missions to Mars and significantly reduce flight time, NASA announced Tuesday (local time). “This new technology would allow astronauts to travel in and out of space faster than ever before — an important consideration when preparing for manned missions to Mars,” said NASA CEO Bill Nelson.

Propulsion shortens astronauts’ travel time to Mars
The use of a so-called nuclear thermal rocket enables a faster transit time and thus reduces the risk for astronauts. Reducing travel time is an important key for manned missions to Mars, as longer flights require more supplies and more robust systems. More mature, more efficient transportation technology will help NASA achieve its goals, according to the space agency’s website.

Much more efficient than traditional chemical propulsion
This technology, which has also been tested before, uses a special nuclear reactor to generate extremely high temperatures. An engine transfers the heat generated by the reactor to a liquid propellant, which expands as a result and is expelled through a nozzle to propel the spacecraft. According to NASA, nuclear thermal rockets could be at least three times more efficient than conventional chemical propulsion currently in use.

As part of the project, NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) will lead the technical development of the nuclear heat engine to be integrated into DARPA’s experimental spacecraft. DARPA acts as the client for the development of the entire stage and engine including the reactor.