NASA is funding development of a new rocket called the Pulsed Plasma Rocket (PPR) that could drastically reduce travel time to Mars.
The PPR uses nuclear power to generate high-impulse plasma thrust. This would make it far more efficient than current chemical rockets.
Developers claim the PPR could cut a round-trip journey between Earth and Mars down to just 2 months, compared to nearly 2 years with current rockets.
In addition to faster Mars travel, the PPR could carry heavier payloads. This would allow more robust crew shielding from radiation during long space flights.
The concept comes from an earlier Pulsed Fission Fusion idea. NASA has funded Phase I of studying the PPR, analyzing its design and performance.
Phase II work will optimize the engine design and perform experiments. Developers will also design a crewed spacecraft concept for Mars travel.
If successful, the PPR could revolutionize deep space exploration and enable manned missions and base establishment on Mars within a relatively short period.
Source: Space
