Last year, scientists from Rosatom, as part of the “Development of Technology, Technologies, and Scientific Research in the Field of Atomic Energy Use in the Russian Federation” (RTTN) program, developed a plasma engine capable of enabling interplanetary travel. Additionally, the construction of a small nuclear power station in Yakutia began, and many other important experiments were conducted.
A team of researchers from Rosatom developed a plasma accelerator for a prototype plasma rocket engine with high thrust and specific impulse. It is capable of operating at medium power levels up to 300 kW and will provide the opportunity for interplanetary flights in the future. Moreover, this engine can facilitate cargo exchange between Earth and the Moon.
Equally significant achievements in 2023 included the commencement of construction of a small nuclear power station in Yakutia, the installation of the casing of a fast-neutron multipurpose research reactor, and the record-breaking retention of plasma in a tokamak.
Furthermore, scientists finalized a methodology for accelerated materials testing, which is expected to shorten the development time for materials. These new materials will be applied in reactor installations, with testing now taking 1-3 months. Ten materials have successfully passed testing using this methodology.
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