Project Orion (nuclear propulsion)

Project Orion was a proposed spacecraft design that used nuclear explosions for propulsion. Instead of traditional engines, it employed multiple small nuclear bombs detonated behind a large pusher plate, transferring shockwaves to propel the ship forward. This method promised extremely high speeds and efficient travel beyond our solar system. Although it showed potential for rapid space exploration, concerns about nuclear fallout and technical challenges prevented its realization. The concept remains a fascinating example of innovative thinking in space propulsion, illustrating how harnessing nuclear energy could revolutionize human space travel if safety and engineering hurdles are addressed.