Overview of Fuel System Options for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

An in-space propulsion technology, nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) has the potential to enable faster interplanetary transit times compared to traditional chemical propulsion methods due to its capacity for high specific impulse (900+ s) and thrust (~10 – 100 klbf). Because of these performance attributes, NTP is currently one of several advanced propulsion technologies currently under consideration by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for future crewed Mars missions. The performance of NTP systems is directly contingent upon the development of a robust fuel form capable of withstanding high-power densities and operation in a hydrogen environment at temperatures in excess of 2500 K. This presentation will overview development needs for fuels in NTP systems, historic and current NTP fuel system options, and their remaining challenges prior to successful implementation.