Encyclopedia entry

Nerva-1

Engine · USA

Original archive entry. The text, images and links below are kept as they were written.

DoE nuclear/LH2 rocket engine. Early version of Nerva engine proposed for use in Saturn and RIFT configurations in 1961.

Subtopics

Nerva 2 engine DoE nuclear/LH2 rocket engine. Developed 1950-74.
Nerva Alpha engine DoE nuclear/LH2 rocket engine. Study 1972. The final Nerva Alpha flight engine reference configuration as documented at the end of its development.
Nerva Gamma engine DoE nuclear/LH2 rocket engine. Study 1972. The final Nerva Gamma flight engine was an improved version of the Alpha, a small engine that could be launched together with its stage and a payload in a single space shuttle launch.
Nerva NTR DoE nuclear/LH2 rocket engine. Study 1991. Late 1980's update of 1960's Nerva design.

Family: nuclear-powered
Country: USA
Spacecraft: EMPIRE Aeronutronic, EMPIRE Lockheed, EMPIRE General Dynamics, IMIS 1968, PPM, Von Braun Mars Expedition - 1969
Launch Vehicles: Nova C, Nova D, Saturn C-3BN, Saturn C-5N, Saturn V-25(S)U
Propellants: Nuclear/LH2
Stages: Nova C-3, Nova D-3, Saturn S-N C-3BN, Saturn S-N C-5N, Saturn S-N V-25(S)U
Agency: AEC