UK Space Agency & Rolls-Royce to build space engine: The UK Space Agency and Rolls-Royce have teamed up to progress nuclear-mechanised spacecraft engines.

The team will have scientists work together to analyse the prospect of an atomic-powered spacecraft & investigate whether this technology may help people travel faster through space than at any time before.

By some estimations, this type of engine may be twice as efficient as the chemical engines that power rockets now.

Spacecraft motorised by this engine may make it to Mars in only 3 to 4 months, this is almost half the time of the fastest achievable trip in a spacecraft using modern chemical propulsion.

Scientists believe the technology may also help to lower the dose of radiation taken on by astronauts while making expeditions to Mars and other planets.

The level of radiation raises the longer astronauts stay in deep space, far from the Earth’s magnetosphere protection.

Dr Graham Turnock, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, announced: “Space nuclear power and propulsion is a game-changing concept that could unlock future deep-space missions that take us to Mars and beyond.”

Dave Gordon, UK Senior Vice President at Rolls-Royce Defence, said: “We are excited to be working with the UK Space Agency on this pioneering project to define future nuclear power technologies for space. We believe there is a real niche UK capability in this area and this initiative can build on the strong UK nuclear network and supply chain.

“We look forward to developing this and other exciting space projects in the future as we continue to develop the power to protect our planet, secure our world and explore our universe.”

UK Space Agency & Rolls-Royce to build space engine