Explosions in Space: No Use in Space?

In summary, the use of a nuke in space is for EMP, heat, and radiation effects. However, the main reason for an explosion is to compress air, which is not present in space. Fusions in the sun produce greater energy than fissions. Nuclear explosions could potentially be used to knock out satellites, alter the trajectory of an asteroid or comet, and propel spacecraft by concentrating the explosion output. For more information, see the Project Orion thread in the Nuclear Engineering subforum.
  • #1
kurushio95
31
0
what use would a nuke be in space? Other than EMP, the heat, and the radiation, there's nothing about the explosion that would have effect. I mean, the only reason an explosion is and explosion is that it compresses the air around it. so what's the use?
 
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  • #2
Fusions are happening all the time in the sun(and any other star), and fusions produce greater energies than fissions...

There r explosions in space, but what's the use of the question anyway??
 
  • #3
EMP to knock out satellites, etc.
Radiation/heat to damage/alter the trajectory of an asteroid/comet.
 
  • #4
Also, nuclear explosions could possibly be used to propel spacecraft by concentrating the explosion output.
 
  • #5
Sempiternity said:
Also, nuclear explosions could possibly be used to propel spacecraft by concentrating the explosion output.


Check out the Project Orion thread in the Nuclear Engineering subformum.
 

1. What causes explosions in space?

Explosions in space are caused by a variety of factors, including chemical reactions, collisions between objects, and energy released from stars and other celestial bodies. They can also be caused by human-made objects, such as rockets or satellites, malfunctioning or colliding.

2. Can explosions occur in a vacuum?

Yes, explosions can occur in a vacuum. A vacuum refers to an area with no air or other matter, but explosions can still happen due to the release of energy or chemical reactions between objects.

3. How do explosions in space differ from explosions on Earth?

Explosions in space differ from explosions on Earth in several ways. In space, there is no air to create a shockwave or carry heat away, so the explosion can be more intense and produce a larger fireball. Additionally, the lack of gravity in space can cause the debris from an explosion to spread out in all directions, rather than being pulled downward.

4. Are explosions in space dangerous?

Explosions in space can be dangerous for astronauts and spacecraft in the immediate vicinity of the explosion. The debris and shockwaves from an explosion can cause damage to equipment and potentially harm astronauts. However, the vastness of space means that the danger dissipates quickly and is not a significant threat to other objects or people.

5. Can we prevent explosions in space?

While we cannot prevent all explosions in space, we can take precautions to minimize the risk. This includes carefully designing and testing spacecraft and equipment, as well as monitoring and tracking objects in orbit to avoid collisions. Additionally, strict safety protocols and procedures are in place for handling and launching rockets and other objects into space.

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