The European Space Agency (ESA) is funding several studies that will explore the use of nuclear propulsion for deep space exploration. Propulsion in space is currently accomplished using storable chemical fuel or electricity or solar energy. The problem space agencies face is that these propulsion methods are reaching their respective physical limits. Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP) could potentially overcome these limitations and usher in a new era of space missions, allowing humanity to reach space further than ever before.

One of the ESA-funded studies, the Pre-European Assessment of a Nuclear Power Plant for Space Applications (RocketRoll), is led by scientists from the University of Prague, the University of Stuttgart, and engineers from OHB Czechspace and OHB System in Bremen.

“A nuclear engine can be more efficient than the most efficient chemical engine, or can overcome a solar-limited electric motor, allowing it to explore places no other technology can reach,” said Jan Fribort, principal researcher in nuclear technology at Czech Tech. “This is a huge challenge for future space missions beyond our solar system, for example,” the University of Prague said in a statement.

New methods of power and propulsion are particularly important as humanity strives for more sustainable space missions and even habitats and bases on the moon and beyond. This will require the delivery of equipment and materials to the lunar surface and to Mars.

“The main advantage over chemical reaction is the efficiency of the engines,” OHB Czechspace said in a statement. Said. “The advantage over solar power is a higher power output and independence from direct sunlight, especially for transporting heavy loads with long time constraints and for exploration beyond the orbit of Mars.”

Scientists and engineers funded under this program will have the next 11 months to develop a feasibility study as part of ESA’s Future Launch Vehicle Preparation Program (FLIPP) and identify the advantages of using a NEP tug over conventional propulsion systems for complex missions.

“The aim of the research is to explore the possibilities of using nuclear fuel for challenging space logistics and research missions,” said Jakub Seveček, head of project management at OHB Czechspace. Said.

Sevecek added that RocketRoll will provide an overview of current experience, technology and industrial capabilities in Europe for the development of a nuclear-powered spacecraft. Additionally, the research will provide the conceptual design of a nuclear electric motor. The team says it will consider the security limitations of the NEP system in the early design stages.

“The use of nuclear electric propulsion for complex space missions has been addressed in a number of studies in the past,” Freibort said. Said. “Thanks to modern technologies, this topic is relevant again in Europe.”

When RocketRoll’s results are presented next year, they could form the basis for other ESA programs looking at the NEP spacecraft, which could be ready by 2035 if all goes according to plan. NASA opened its own program to study the use of nuclear missiles. The agency is working with the Pentagon’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to develop a nuclear heat engine and launch demonstration flights into space as early as 2027.