The evolution of nuclear power generation for mars

Abstract

Among the available energy alternatives nuclear power offers important advantages and in many cases is the only viable alternative given actual operation conditions on Mars. We know that nuclear is the most compact form of energy available. Nuclear power is required at every step of space exploration as a backup form of energy ready to be delivered when all other energy sources cease to deliver. Unfortunately, it also has a number of drawbacks. © 2009 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.