There's been a clear shift in nuclear power through the last decade. I've seen people that previously protested for the closure of plants turn their tune. Really all this is because we've learned that the fact that it produces zero carbon during operation and has a lot of other environmental advantages (like a low footprint), that many are considering the benefits vs the costs. Previously people only cared about the costs but now we see the picture is more complicated. So not only do I have hope for this project, but I also have hope for nuclear power in general. (remember, the argument isn't "nuclear vs renewables" it is "nuclear + renewables vs fossil fuels" vs "renewables vs fossil fuels". Anyone making another argument is not coming from the scientific community).
Also, an interesting aspect of nuclear engines is that astronauts will likely receive lower dosages of radiation as opposed to using traditional engine designs. This is because even with increased radiation from the engine (which can be shielded, but that's more weight) the reduced travel time means that the astronauts are exposed to lower amounts of solar (directional) and cosmic (omnidirectional) radiation. The NASA article mentions reduced weight of supplies but shielding also matters and is quite heavy.
There's been a clear shift in nuclear power through the last decade. I've seen people that previously protested for the closure of plants turn their tune. Really all this is because we've learned that the fact that it produces zero carbon during operation and has a lot of other environmental advantages (like a low footprint), that many are considering the benefits vs the costs. Previously people only cared about the costs but now we see the picture is more complicated. So not only do I have hope for this project, but I also have hope for nuclear power in general. (remember, the argument isn't "nuclear vs renewables" it is "nuclear + renewables vs fossil fuels" vs "renewables vs fossil fuels". Anyone making another argument is not coming from the scientific community).
Also, an interesting aspect of nuclear engines is that astronauts will likely receive lower dosages of radiation as opposed to using traditional engine designs. This is because even with increased radiation from the engine (which can be shielded, but that's more weight) the reduced travel time means that the astronauts are exposed to lower amounts of solar (directional) and cosmic (omnidirectional) radiation. The NASA article mentions reduced weight of supplies but shielding also matters and is quite heavy.