This new research contract will see planetary scientists
work together to explore the game-changing potential of
nuclear power as a more plentiful source of energy, capable
of making possible deeper space exploration in the decades
to come.
Nuclear propulsion, which would involve channelling the
immense energy released in splitting the atom to accelerate
propellants, like hydrogen, at huge speeds, has the
potential to revolutionise space travel.
By some estimates, this kind of engine could be twice as
efficient as the chemical engines that power our rockets
today. Spacecraft powered by this kind of engine could,
conceivably, make it to Mars in just 3 to 4 months –
roughly half the time of the fastest possible trip in a
spacecraft using the current chemical propulsion.
Nuclear space power is anticipated to create new skilled
jobs across the UK to support the burgeoning UK space
economy.
Science Minister said:
As we build back better from the pandemic, it is
partnerships like this between business, industry and
government that will help to create jobs and bring
forward pioneering innovations that will advance UK
spaceflight.
Nuclear power presents transformative possibilities for
space exploration and this innovative study with
Rolls-Royce could help to propel our next generation of
astronauts into space faster and for longer,
significantly increasing our knowledge of the Universe.
Dr Graham Turnock, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency,
said:
Space nuclear power and propulsion is a game-changing
concept that could unlock future deep-space missions that
take us to Mars and beyond.
This study will help us understand the exciting potential
of atomic-powered spacecraft, and whether this nascent
technology could help us travel further and faster
through space than ever before.
Dave Gordon, UK Senior Vice President, Rolls-Royce Defence
said:
We are excited to be working with the UK Space Agency on
this pioneering project to define future nuclear power
technologies for space. We believe there is a real niche
UK capability in this area and this initiative can build
on the strong UK nuclear network and supply chain.
We look forward to developing this and other exciting
space projects in the future as we continue to develop
the power to protect our planet, secure our world and
explore our Universe.
It would not just mean a time saving – it would also
radically reduce the dose of radiation taken on by
astronauts that would be making future trips to Mars or
other planets. The size of the dose increases the longer
you spend in deep space, away from the bubble of protection
given by the Earth’s magnetosphere.
The appeal of a small nuclear power generator for
propulsion also comes from the fact that power in space
becomes increasingly precious with distance from the Sun.
In the outer Solar System, sunlight gets too dim for solar
panels, and other technologies like fuel cells are often
too patchy as a source of energy.
Nuclear propulsion is an idea that has existed since the
1950s, when the United States attempted to develop a rocket
propelled by small atomic bombs tossed out the back.
