Nerva: Engine
- From LH2 tank
- Pump
- Turbine
- Turbopump exhaust
- Nozzle collant pipe (carries entire hydrogen flow)
- Exhaust nozzle
- 3% of reactor efflux
- Radiation shield
- Turbine power control valve
The thermodynamic nuclear rocket scores over the conventional bi-propellant engine because the LH2 can be heated (without being oxidised) to a much higher temperature, with consequent increase in thrust.