One of the main objectives prepare long-term space missions is the creation of a powerful energy source to provide the colonists with energy for a long time
Photo: NASA
American scientists in Nevada have successfully tested a nuclear reactor designed to produce energy during long missions to Mars. About it reports Reuters.
“Tests in the Nevada compact nuclear power system that is designed to support long-term mission of NASA on the inhospitable surface of Mars, was successful. March planned full-scale launch”, – stated in the message.
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The reactor is called Kilopower. One of the main objectives prepare long-term space missions is the creation of a powerful energy source to provide the colonists with energy for a long period of time, and light enough to be transported to another planet.
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According to Deputy Director of NASA’s space technology Steve Yurchuk, compact size Kilopower and its power will allow the astronauts to deliver multiple blocks on the same ship and to ensure the generation of tens of kilowatts of power at Mars.
Test Kilopower began in the fall of 2017. The device uses a reactor in the form of uranium-235, which in size resembles a roll of paper towels.
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In November, NASA tested the parachute system for the Mars mission.
