Book Description

The SNAP 8 Program was directed toward the development of lightweight nuclear reactors which would operate in space for greater than 10,000 hr at a power level of 600 kW(t). Toward this objective, two reactors were designed, built, and successfully operated. The experimental reactor (S8ER) was an engineering test of a prototype core, but did not have flight-developed hardware. The developmental reactor (S8DR) was a nuclear system test to verify the operability of the integrated flight configuration. The development, design characteristics, operating experience, experimental results, and supporting tests for the S8ER and S8DR are discussed. 20 references. (auth).