Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) is a type of rocket engine that uses nuclear reactions to heat a propellant, typically hydrogen. The heated gas then expands and is expelled through a nozzle, producing thrust. This method can provide higher efficiency compared to traditional chemical rockets, allowing spacecraft to travel faster and farther in space.
NTP systems rely on a nuclear reactor to generate heat, which is a significant advantage for long-duration missions, such as those to Mars or beyond. By reducing travel time and increasing payload capacity, NTP could play a crucial role in future deep-space exploration and human colonization efforts.