Interstellar probe: breakthrough science enabled by nuclear propulsion

The purpose of interstellar probe (ISP) is to follow NASA's exploratory mission to cross the heliospheric boundary regions and, for the first time, enter our extra-solar galactic environment. Interstellar probe has therefore captured the imagination of the science community and the public for several decades. In 1999, NASA commissioned a science and technology definition team to address the science and technology aspects of ISP. A number of scientific issues and technology aspects have changed. We now also have modern three-dimensional simulations of the heliospheric interface regions. In addition, nuclear power has become a feasible alternative for propulsion of interstellar probe. We discuss how nuclear propulsion might affect the instrumentation, mission requirements, and mission plan, as well as how it may enable new science objectives. We discuss the science, payload, ongoing trade studies, and development of this approach for the interstellar probe, relying on technology developed for the Jupiter Icy Moon Orbiter (JIMO).