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We saw the announcement of a partnership between NASA and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to demonstrate a nuclear thermal rocket engine in space. This project will pave the way for NASA crewed missions to Mars.
As per the official NASA blog, the Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations, or DRACO, programme will be a joint effort between NASA and DARPA.
The non-reimbursable agreement outlines roles, responsibilities, and procedures with the goal of accelerating development efforts. It is intended to benefit both agencies.
“NASA will work with our long-term partner, DARPA, to develop and demonstrate advanced nuclear thermal propulsion technology as soon as 2027. With the help of this new technology, astronauts could journey to and from deep space faster than ever – a major capability to prepare for crewed missions to Mars,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “Congratulations to both NASA and DARPA on this exciting investment, as we ignite the future, together.”