USS Nautilus

USS Nautilus (SSN-571) was the world's first operational nuclear-powered submarine, launched by the United States in 1954. Unlike traditional submarines that relied on diesel engines, Nautilus used nuclear reactors to generate power, allowing it to stay submerged for extended periods without surfacing for fuel. Its famous journey under the North Pole in 1958 showcased its capabilities and marked a significant advancement in naval technology. Nautilus played a crucial role in the Cold War, demonstrating the strategic advantages of nuclear submarines, and is now a museum in Groton, Connecticut, celebrating naval innovation and history.