NASA is developing a new propulsion system that could enable the first crewed mission to Saturn’s moon Titan. The Dragonfly mission, set to launch in 2034, will explore Titan’s atmosphere and surface using a nuclear-powered quadcopter. However, this marks just the beginning of human exploration plans for Titan. A recent study by Explore Titan suggests that a nuclear-fission propulsion spacecraft could be used for a crewed mission.
The study, conducted by researchers William O’Hara and Marcos Fernandez-Tous, proposes using nuclear-electric propulsion or nuclear-thermal propulsion to reduce transit times to just one to two years. This would significantly decrease the time spent in microgravity and exposure to cosmic radiation, essential for human health.
The team assessed various nuclear propulsion concepts, including the Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR) and Direct Fusion Drive (DFD). These technologies could potentially reduce transit times to 90 days or less. However, they also increase the spacecraft’s mass and cost.
According to O’Hara and Fernandez-Tous, “nuclear space propulsion systems may be the key enabler for future missions to Titan.” The study concludes that nuclear power is crucial for a successful human mission to Titan due to the health risks associated with deep space human spaceflight.
Source: https://www.universetoday.com/articles/a-nuclear-powered-spacecraft-could-explore-titan-for-signs-of-life