NTR (Nuclear Thermal Rocket)

A Nuclear Thermal Rocket (NTR) is a type of spacecraft propulsion that uses nuclear reactions to generate heat, which then heats a propellant like hydrogen. This high-temperature gas expands rapidly and is expelled through a nozzle to produce thrust. Unlike chemical rockets, NTRs can achieve higher specific impulse (fuel efficiency), allowing for faster travel and longer missions. They provide a powerful and efficient way to explore distant planets and beyond, making space missions more feasible and cost-effective. In essence, NTRs harness nuclear energy to propel spacecraft more efficiently than traditional chemical engines.