Los Alamos: Project Rover nuclear rocket initiated
In 1955, the US initiated Project Rover at Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory to develop nuclear-thermal rocket propulsion, initially for Air Force ICBM upper stages. Transferred to NASA in 1958, it advanced reactor designs until 1973.
Background
Project Start and Origin
Project Rover was begun in 1955 at the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory in New Mexico as a US Air Force project, to create a nuclear-powered upper stage for intercontinental ballistic missiles. It aimed to use nuclear reactors to heat hydrogen as propellant, producing high thrust for long distances in space.
Transition to NASA and NERVA
After the Sputnik crisis of 1958, NASA took over the project, which then ran under the Space Nuclear Propulsion Office — a joint arrangement with the Atomic Energy Commission. It merged with NERVA (Nuclear Engine for Rocket Vehicle Application), with Rover concentrating on reactor development while NERVA planned complete systems and space missions.
Key Developments and Tests
Researchers built several reactors such as Phoebus-2A, the most powerful single reactor ever tested, at over 4,000 megawatts thermal. Prototypes were assembled at Technical Area 18 (Pajarito Site) and tested in Nevada at Jackass Flats.
Significant Visits and End
President John F. Kennedy visited the laboratory in 1962, accompanied by figures such as Lyndon Johnson and Glenn Seaborg, which drew national attention. The project ended in 1973 on budgetary priorities, but had a lasting influence on nuclear reactor technology. There are no specific witness accounts, but historical films and documents attest to its achievements.