NERVA Program

NERVA (Nuclear Engine for Rocket Vehicle Applications) was the flight-engine development phase of the Rover nuclear-rocket programme, initiated in 1961. NASA and the Atomic Energy Commission directed the work through the Space Nuclear Propulsion Office; Aerojet-General was prime contractor and Westinghouse developed the nuclear subsystem. It sought a practical hydrogen-propelled nuclear-thermal engine able to withstand flight loads and operating environments. Ground development progressed from NRX reactor experiments to the XE engine tested in 1969. Cancellation in 1973 ended the effort before a flight test. NERVA’s engine hardware and its managing programme are distinct subjects.