Aerospace Nuclear Power Radiation Safety

We see nothing that would prevent our use of aerospace nuclear devices. On the other hand, we realize that much analytic, experimental and real test work must be accomplished to satisfy ourselves that the risks have been eliminated or appropriately minimized. Thus, we can see that the direction in which we are walking on this thermal tightrope is toward an increased operational flexibility. The availability of nuclear power will be one of the principal factors that will give man the capability to explore the great distances of space. The radiation risks associated with development and use of nuclear space systems are expected to be much less than the risks encountered in the development of such technological advances as electric power, the airplane or chemical rockets The added operational costs to achieve protection from these risks, though admittedly high, can be kept within reason. These costs, however, will be small as compared to the operational gains derived from employing nuclear power - for in many instances, the Job Just cannot be accomplished without the use of atomic energy.