Fission
Fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of a large amount of energy. In space and astronautical engineering, fission is used as a power source for spacecraft and space stations. Nuclear reactors that use fission reactions generate heat, which is then converted into electricity. Fission reactors are used to power spacecraft that require a large amount of energy, such as those used for deep space exploration. Fission is also used to power nuclear thermal rockets, which use the energy released by fission to heat a propellant, such as hydrogen, which is then expelled out of a nozzle to generate thrust.
Your Previous Searches
Random Picks
- Stress Management Techniques: Stress management techniques refer to various methods and strategies used to cope with and reduce stress levels. In the context of space and astronautical engineering, stress management techniques are particularly important due to the high- ... Read More >>
- Passive And Active Thermal Storage: Passive and active thermal storage are two methods used in space and astronautical engineering to regulate the temperature of spacecraft and space habitats. Passive thermal storage involves the use of materials with high thermal mass, such ... Read More >>
- Space Transportation Systems: Space Transportation Systems refer to the vehicles, technologies, and infrastructure used to transport people and payloads to and from space. This includes launch vehicles, spacecraft, ground support equipment, and mission control centers. ... Read More >>
Top News
Check out this interactive map of the early universe, considered largest ever cr...
A team of astronomers have put together the largest, most detailed map of the universe ever created – and you can explore it now....
News Source: USA Today on 2025-06-12
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is about to totally transform astronomy...
With the ability to scan the entire southern night sky every three days, the huge Vera C. Rubin Observatory could be about to start solving the mysteries of the universe, from dark matter to Planet Ni...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-12
Trump's proposed science cuts will have huge consequences...
The universe will still be there to marvel at, despite brutal cuts set to hit NASA and the National Science Foundation's budgets. But the damage to future research will be long-lasting, says Chanda Pr...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-11
Starlink satellites are leaking radio signals that may ruin astronomy...
Our ability to study faint radio signals from when the first stars began to form is being threatened by SpaceX's Starlink satellites, which seem to be unintentionally leaking radio signals that overpo...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-09
Asteroids around Venus pose possible 'invisible threat' to Earth: Should you be ...
A swarm of large asteroids likely lurking around Venus could one day pose an "invisible threat" to Earth if left unchecked, astronomers have warned....
News Source: USA Today on 2025-06-06