Space Education and Strategic Applications Journal • Vol . 2 , No . 1 • Fall 2020 / Winter 2021
Commentary : Nukes in Space 2021
Karl Grossman State University of New York / College at Old Westbury
Abstract
The use of nuclear in space is being pushed harder than ever . In July , an Associated Press dispatch declared the headline
“ US Eyes Building Nuclear Power Plants for Moon and Mars ”. Also in July , The White House National Space Council issued a strategy for space exploration that includes “ nuclear propulsion methods .” Additionally ,
“ Space Policy Directive-6 ” was released by The White House last month titled “ Strategy for Space Nuclear Power ,” elaborating on the U . S . desire for nuclear power and nuclear propulsion in space . And finally , Elon Musk , founder and CEO of SpaceX , has been touting the detonation of nuclear bombs on Mars to transform it into an “ Earth-like planet .” The rapid trajectory with which this growing support for nuclear in space , however , is quite concerning — especially given the potential of explosion whilst aboard a spacecraft , and even worse , the after effects on humans and the environment here on earth may experience . This article promotes the use of solar energy as an alternative .
Keywords : space , nukes , nuclear power , moon , mars , Elon Musk , SpaceX , solar energy
Comentario : armas nucleares en el espacio 2021
Resumen
El uso de la energía nuclear en el espacio se está presionando más que nunca . En julio , un despacho de Associated Press declaró el titular “ Los ojos de EE . UU . están construyendo plantas de energía nuclear para la Luna y Marte ”. También en julio , el Consejo Nacional del Espacio de la Casa Blanca emitió una estrategia para la exploración espacial que incluye “ métodos de propulsión nuclear ”. Además , la Casa Blanca publicó el mes pasado la “ Directiva de política espacial-6 ” titulada “ Estrategia para la energía nuclear espacial ”, que explica el deseo de Estados Unidos de disponer de energía nuclear y propulsión nuclear en el espacio . Y finalmente , Elon Musk , fundador y director ejecutivo de SpaceX , ha estado
25 doi : 10.18278 / sesa . 2.1.5