Nuclear Reaction
A nuclear reaction is a process in which the nucleus of an atom is altered through the interaction with another nucleus or particle. In space and astronautical engineering, nuclear reactions are used to generate power for spacecraft and to propel them through space. Nuclear reactions can be either fission, where a nucleus is split into smaller fragments, or fusion, where two nuclei are combined to form a larger nucleus. Fission reactions are used in nuclear reactors to generate electricity, while fusion reactions are the process that powers the sun. In space, nuclear reactions are used to power deep space probes and to provide electricity for long-duration missions. The use of nuclear reactions in space exploration is highly regulated and requires strict safety protocols to prevent accidents or contamination.
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