Dimensions
144 x 224 x 33mm
In 1957, a small group of scientists launched a secret US Government-sponsored attempt to build a 40,000-ton manned spaceship propelled by nuclear bombs. The apparent absurdity of the project is one reason why it ultimately failed. But with its mix of sublime theoretical physics and apparently madcap engineering, its diverse cast of Cold War warriors and idealistic would-be intergalactic pioneers, the mission to build Orion remains one of the most tantalising "what if?" stories of the twentieth-century.
Still classified in its details, Project Orion was a stunningly ambitious effort to develop a fast, manoeuvrable, nuclear-powered vehicle for long-range voyages in space. The initial plan called for missions to Mars by 1965 and Saturn by 1970.
It might have worked. Indeed, it might yet happen. Today NASA is once again looking at Project Orion. Similar propulsion systems could be the best means to allow humans to explore beyond Mars in the coming century.
George Dyson tells the true story of the incredible project for the first time in 'Project Orion'.
