Introduction to Nuclear Propulsion: Lecture 15 - Nuclear Test Operations

The test operation of nuclear power plants, specifically nuclear rockets, bears some interesting similarities to the operation of chemical rocket tests as well as, of course, many differences. A significant feature common to both nuclear and chemical rocket tests is that all the fuel for the entire operation is loaded at the start of the test. As a direct consequence of this fact, the operation of nuclear power plants must be surrounded with adequate safety precautions, as is indeed the case in the operation of chemical rockets, A second direct consequence is that in both types of testing a very thorough and complete checkout is made before starting the test.