NERVA derivative reactors for thermal and electric propulsion

NERVA derivative reactors (NDRs) have significant flexibility for diverse space power applications that include direct thermal propulsion, steady state power for electric propulsion, and nuclear hybrid propulsion. For illustrations, three NDR designs were developed: one for a 50 kN thrust nuclear propulsion engine, a 6 MWe steady state electric power source, and a dual mode system that produces 50 kN of direct thrust plus 300 kWe of power for electric propulsion. The NDRs are based on demonstrated reactor technologies and state-of-the-art fuel and materials' technologies. The propulsion power systems can be designed for near-term applications (mid-1990 IOC). With additional developments in high temperature fuels, higher performance NDRs can be made available by the turn of the century. 11 refs.