Force of Nuclear Pulsed Propultion

In summary, the force of a small atom bomb used in nuclear pulsed propulsion is typically measured in kilotons or megatons of TNT equivalent, with the smallest tested being 0.01 kilotons. This presents a challenge in terms of balancing thrust and acceleration for potential spacecraft designs.
  • #1
jeremyb
8
0
Hey there...

for backround see the last post/.

Does anyone know the force (PSI) of a samml atom bomb such as the type used in nuclear pulsed propultion. ??

thanks a lot

Jeremy
 
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  • #2
Wikopedia has a lot of info. The one pressure number it gives is 50,000 psi.

Too much thrust (therefore too much acceleration) is of course the main problem with these types of engines. The smallest ship wikopedia says was conceived would need to be be 300 tons to have a survivable acceleration.
 
  • #3
Hey Jeremy,

I'm not sure about the exact PSI of a small atom bomb used in nuclear pulsed propulsion, but I do know that the explosive power of nuclear weapons is typically measured in kilotons or megatons of TNT equivalent. This measurement takes into account both the blast pressure and the amount of energy released.

According to the Nuclear Weapon Archive, the smallest nuclear weapon ever tested was the "Davy Crockett" warhead, which had a yield of 0.01 kilotons (10 tons) of TNT equivalent. In comparison, the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima had a yield of 15 kilotons.

I hope this helps! If anyone has more specific information, please feel free to chime in.
 

1. What is force of nuclear pulsed propulsion?

The force of nuclear pulsed propulsion is a theoretical propulsion system that uses the energy released from a series of small, rapid nuclear explosions as a means of propulsion for a spacecraft.

2. How does it work?

The propulsion system works by detonating a series of small nuclear explosions behind a spacecraft, pushing it forward. The force of the explosion creates a shockwave that acts as a "pusher plate" and propels the spacecraft forward at high speeds.

3. What are the potential benefits of using nuclear pulsed propulsion?

One potential benefit of nuclear pulsed propulsion is that it could enable spacecraft to travel much faster than traditional propulsion systems, potentially allowing for faster exploration of our solar system and beyond. It could also potentially reduce the travel time for manned missions to other planets.

4. Are there any risks associated with nuclear pulsed propulsion?

There are some potential risks associated with nuclear pulsed propulsion, including the potential for radioactive contamination and the possibility of the explosions causing damage to the spacecraft. However, these risks can be mitigated through careful planning and design.

5. Is nuclear pulsed propulsion currently being used?

No, nuclear pulsed propulsion is still in the theoretical stage and has not yet been successfully tested or used in any space missions. However, there is ongoing research and development in this area, and it may be used in future space exploration missions.

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