Limits of the Advanced Nuclear Power Systems for Space Exploration

This presentation is part of a series of talks given at Nuclear and Emerging Technologies for Space 2015 (NETS) meeting in Albuquerque, organized by Aerospace Nuclear Science and Technology Division of the American Nuclear Society.

The purpose of the present presentation is to sketch a roadmap of the future nuclear research in order to bring the performances of the nuclear power application near to the technological limits, and to inspire the researches in the field to make the step from evolutionary progress to revolutionary science solutions.

NASA is currently considering capabilities for robotic and crewed missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Strategies that implement advanced power and propulsion technologies, as well as radiation protection, will be important in accomplishing these missions in the future. NETS serves as a major communications network and forum for professional and students working in the area of space nuclear technology. Every year it facilitates the exchange of information among research and management personnel from international government, industry, academia, and the national laboratory systems.

The NETS 2015 meeting will address topics ranging from overviews of current programs to methods of meeting the challenges of future space endeavors.