Lockheed Martin to Develop a Nuclear-Driven Spacecraft

Lockheed Martin is among the largest aerospace developers in the world, having designed, developed and manufactured some of the best fighter jets in the United States of America. In an exciting new development, the organisation is all set to make strides in space travel by making a space aircraft that is propelled by nuclear energy, as per Bloomberg. Their thermal nuclear engine will be tested in space as a part of the DRACO program. Their aircraft has officially been named X-NTRV, and it is expected to be developed in the coming years.

Lockheed Martin has set a target of 2027 to launch this mission. However, concerns have expectedly been raised regarding the safety of this spacecraft. But this engine will have the capacity to create more thrust with more efficiency and lesser complexity. Lockheed Martin has emphasised its safety in its statement, saying, “The reactor will not be turned on until the spacecraft has reached a nuclear safe orbit.” The company will collaborate with BMX Technologies, who will be responsible for developing the nuclear fission reaction for this engine.