John Graham with contributions from Vladimir Ionkin (IPPE) and N.N. Ponomarev-Stepnoi (Kurchatov Institute) and NASA.

The International Atomic Energy Agency says that

"This publication provides details of a variety of radioisotope power systems, shows in what circumstances they surpass other power systems, and provides the history of the space missions in which they have been employed. The book also summarizes the use of on-board reactors and the testing done on reactor rocket thrusters as well as provides a review of current technology, a consideration of future applications, and a bibliography of further information on space nuclear technology. This publication also attempts to identify those R&D areas where space related nuclear power systems can be of practical relevance to efforts in innovative reactors and fuel cycle technology development that are currently being pursued within various international collaboration frameworks."

I think it tells a good story of space exploration that was developed under the competition of real war with the help of Nazi von Braun, and of the Cold War between the US and the USSR. Let's hope that it is "Peaceful" from now on.

"The Role of Nuclear Power and Nuclear Propulsion in the Peaceful Exploration of Space," John Graham with assistance from V. Ionkin and N.N. Ponomarev-Stepnoi, International Atomic Energy Agency, September, 2005.

ISBN: 92-0-107404-2 (Trade paperback)

Available from the International Atomic Energy Agency