Recent studies conducted by the Space Nuclear Power Systems branch of the Weapons Laboratory are discussed. These studies address the issues of qualification testing and integration of a reactor power system for US Air Force missions. A number of technical and programmatic requirements for reactor development programs were generated. Chief among these requirements are specific power of 7 to 12 W/kg, on-orbit restart capability, no credible mission-ending single-point failures, and demonstrable life-cycle costs at least equal to those of a comparable solar power system.
