Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power -- 3rd Edition: Principles, Systems, and Applications

Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power: Principles, Systems, and Applications, Third Edition provides a rigorous, integrated introduction to one of the most important enabling technologies for the future of space exploration: nuclear energy in space.Written for advanced undergraduate students, graduate students, practicing engineers, researchers, mission designers, and technical leaders, this textbook connects the fundamentals of nuclear engineering with the realities of aerospace mission design, propulsion, power conversion, thermal management, radiation shielding, testing, safety, and regulatory authorization. Rather than treating space nuclear systems as isolated reactor concepts, the book presents them as complete engineering systems in which reactor physics, materials, heat transport, propulsion performance, power conversion, mission architecture, and public responsibility must be considered together.This third edition has been substantially expanded and reorganized. It covers the historical foundations of Project Rover, NERVA, SNAP, TOPAZ, SP-100, Kilopower/KRUSTY, Fission Surface Power, and modern programs such as DRACO, while also developing the technical principles needed to understand future lunar, Martian, cislunar, and deep-space missions. Topics include astrodynamics and mission analysis, neutron multiplication and reactor kinetics, compact reactor design, cryogenic propellants, heat pipes, radiator sizing, refractory materials, radiation shielding, radioisotope power systems, fission surface power, closed Brayton and Stirling conversion, nuclear thermal propulsion, nuclear electric propulsion, bimodal architectures, multiphysics simulation, launch safety, ground testing, environmental review, and nuclear flight safety authorization.The book emphasizes both analytical rigor and engineering judgment. Worked examples, technical tables, design-oriented discussions, and end-of-chapter problems help readers move from governing equations to practical system-level reasoning. Special attention is given to the constraints that make space nuclear systems uniquely challenging: mass, heat rejection, autonomy, reliability, reactivity control, materials limits, radiation protection, launch safety, testing feasibility, and public trust.Space Nuclear Propulsion and Power is both a graduate-level textbook and a professional reference for those who want to understand how nuclear propulsion and power can support sustained lunar operations, faster and more capable Mars missions, high-power electric propulsion, deep-space science, and long-duration exploration far from the Sun. It presents space nuclear technology not as speculation, but as a demanding, technically credible field whose promise depends on disciplined engineering, responsible safety analysis, and systems-level design. Read more