"NASA's New Nuclear Rocket: Revolutionizing Space Exploration"

NASA is investing in new technologies through the NIAC program, including a concept for a Thin Film Isotope Nuclear Engine Rocket (TFINER) proposed by the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory. This nuclear propulsion technology relies on the decay of radioactive isotopes to generate thrust and could enable rapid velocities for next-generation mission concepts, such as sending a telescope to the Sun's gravitational lens and rendezvousing with interstellar objects. The proposed technology offers simplicity, scalability, and potential for multiple mission profiles, aligning with NASA's vision for future space exploration and astrophysics.