this post was submitted on 07 Jan 2024
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There's been various desktop-grade plans regarding use of nuclear rockets, both in the atmosphere and not. Never underestimate what engineers can come up with.
I think what they were trying to argue is that the mercury emitted would be no worse than the mercury already emitted as a byproduct of power plants.
Most rocket operators/manufacturers run on razor thin margins or at a loss, sustained by state subsidies or wishful venture capitalists.
I completely forgot about coal power plants ๐คฆโโ๏ธ now it makes sense as to why mercury was even considered a viable rocket fuel.
Very interesting, thanks for the info!