Advancing Research in Nuclear Thermal Propulsion | MIT News

The Journey Beyond the Moon: Taylor Hampson and Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

Going to the moon was a monumental achievement in human history, but venturing to Mars presents an entirely new set of challenges. The sheer distance is staggering: while the moon is merely 238,855 miles away, Mars can be anywhere from 33 million to 249 million miles from Earth. The propulsion systems that powered lunar missions, primarily chemical rockets, simply will not suffice for a journey of such magnitude.

The Promise of Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

Enter Taylor Hampson, a master’s student in the Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering (NSE) at MIT. His research, sponsored by NASA, focuses on nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP), a technology that could revolutionize space travel. NTP utilizes nuclear energy to heat a propellant, such as hydrogen, to extremely high temperatures and then expels it through a nozzle. This method can significantly reduce travel times to Mars compared to traditional chemical rockets. As Hampson succinctly puts it, “You can get double the efficiency, or more, from a nuclear propulsion engine with the same thrust.”

Understanding Rocket Propulsion Techniques

To appreciate the significance of Hampson’s work, it’s crucial to understand the different types of rocket propulsion available. There are three primary categories:

1. Chemical Propulsion: This type relies on the combustion of propellants to achieve thrust.

2. Electrical Propulsion: Here, electric fields accelerate charged particles, generating thrust.

3. Nuclear Propulsion: This falls into two subcategories: nuclear electric propulsion, which uses nuclear energy to produce electricity for thrust, and nuclear thermal propulsion, which heats propellants through nuclear reactions.

Hampson’s focus on NTP offers a considerable advantage—double the efficiency of its chemical counterparts for the same thrust. However, the technology comes with challenges, including high costs and regulatory hurdles. “There hasn’t been a mission case that has needed it enough to justify the higher cost,” he notes.

A New Era of Exploration

With NASA poised to send astronauts to Mars in the 2030s, the spotlight on nuclear thermal propulsion is becoming increasingly relevant. Hampson’s early fascination with space was ignited by watching shuttle launches on Florida’s Space Coast, but he ultimately found his niche at the intersection of aerospace and nuclear engineering.

Pursuing undergraduate studies in aerospace engineering at Georgia Tech, he solidified his interest through internships with space companies like Blue Origin and involvement in Georgia Tech’s rocket team. “I think MIT has the best combination of nuclear and aerospace education,” he reflects, affirming his choice to continue his education there.

Collaborating on Groundbreaking Techniques

At MIT, Hampson collaborates with Koroush Shirvan, an associate professor working on NTP with NASA. The facilities at the MIT Reactor allow for rigorous testing of nuclear fuels under conditions similar to those in a nuclear propulsion engine. Hampson expresses enthusiasm for his current research, which builds upon the knowledge gained during his NASA internship. “Nuclear propulsion is itself advanced, and I’m working on what comes after that. It’s almost futuristic,” he says.

Navigating the Complexities of NTP

While the theory behind NTP offers optimistic prospects, the practical implementation is fraught with challenges. For instance, the engine startup process is not as straightforward as that of conventional combustion engines. The rapid temperature increases can lead to material failures, complicating the fuel and cooling system design. Hampson is modeling the entire rocket engine system—from the tank to the pump—to understand how different components interact and affect overall performance.

Using a one-dimensional model allows Hampson to streamline calculations and simulate how variables such as temperature and pressure influence the engine’s operation. “The challenge is in coupling the thermodynamic effects with the neutronic effects,” he explains.

Embracing Challenges

Hampson is facing the advanced complexities of nuclear thermal propulsion head-on. After years of indecision about his academic path, he seems to have found his calling. He is motivated by the prospect of doctoral studies in the field and the persistent allure of rocket propulsion.

Beyond academia, Hampson is also an avid runner, training for marathons despite having faced setbacks, such as a fractured leg. His experiences reinforce a core belief: “You’re a lot more capable than you think.” It’s this spirit of resilience and curiosity that drives him toward the challenges posed by nuclear propulsion.

A Future with Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

As he delves deeper into his research, Hampson expresses a profound commitment to tackling the unresolved issues in nuclear thermal propulsion. “Relatively speaking, it’s a field in need of much more advancement; there are many more unsolved problems,” he notes, highlighting the potential that lies ahead.

Through his pursuit, Taylor Hampson is not just preparing for a journey to Mars; he’s paving the way for the future of space exploration.