BWX Technologies, in partnership with Lockheed Martin, will provide the nuclear reactor and fuel for the world's first demonstration spacecraft using nuclear thermal propulsion. The reactor will enable the spacecraft, known as DRACO, to maneuver through space with speed and agility for an extended period of time. The nuclear thermal propulsion system utilizes High Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel to rapidly heat a super-cold gas and create thrust. The spacecraft is set to launch in 2027 and is expected to revolutionize cislunar operations. The work will primarily be conducted at BWXT's facility in Virginia.
Fri, 28 Jul 2023 14:25:15 GMT | Space Ref