2 ms·
I wonder how useful for space exploration this could be? That is, make a non-cruise variant for long distance satellite/human launches?
by lurker12390879 9y ago
I wonder how useful for space exploration this could be? That is, make a non-cruise variant for long distance satellite/human launches?
- tim333 9y agoI assume the Russian missile is a nuclear powered jet engine, assuming it exists, while for space you need a nuclear powered rocket engine. Different tech. The US tested a nuclear rocket engine on the ground in 1967 and it looked well cool. I'd vote for giving it's development a go. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_thermal_rocket#/media/File:NERVA_XE_nuclear_rocket_engine_being_transported_to_test_stand_-_GPN-2002-000143.jpg https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_thermal_rocket#/media/... The US also built nuclear powered jet engines in the 60s but found for piloted aircraft you'd either need tons of lead shielding or kill the pilots. It's rumoured the Russians actually flew one and killed said pilots.