Header image: Cherenkov radiation in a nuclear reactor (image source: Argonne National Laboratory.) “This is not nuts, this is super-nuts.” Richard Courant, on viewing a test of the Project Orion nuclear propulsion system Last installment, we delved into the inner… Read More »Rocket Physics, the Hard Way: Nuclear Thermal Rockets
Header image: SpaceX Raptor test fire (image source: SpaceX.) “Anyone who sits on top of the largest hydrogen-oxygen fueled system in the world; knowing they’re going to light the bottom, and doesn’t get a little worried, does not fully understand… Read More »Rocket Physics, the Hard Way: Rocket Engine Engineering
“There is an art to flying, or rather a knack. The knack lies in learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” – The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Douglas Adams In this series, Rocket Physics, the Hard… Read More »Rocket Physics, the Hard Way: How to Go to Mars
“Rocket science is tough, and rockets have a way of failing.” – Sally Ride, NASA astronaut To go to Mars, we need rocket science. But why is rocket science so hard? In this series, Rocket Physics, the Hard Way, we… Read More »Rocket Physics, the Hard Way: The Tyranny of the Rocket Equation
2020 has been, to say the least, a difficult year for humanity. However, it has also been marked by great achievements in space exploration; a testament to our relentless pursuit for knowledge despite adversity. Before we enter 2021, let’s take a look at the year’s highlights in space exploration.
Should Humanity go to Mars? As the cost of spaceflight tumbles in the wake of maturing reusable launch systems and blooming private space industry, the public Zeitgeist turns its eyes on Mars. Now more than ever, the door to exploring… Read More »Our Greatest Duty