/sci/ - Science & Math

>>15448092
> The 2019 order established a three-tier system for reviewing payloads carrying nuclear power systems based on the amount of radioactive material on board and the probability of certain radiation exposure levels in the event of an accident. The approval process also looks at de-orbiting procedures at the end of the mission life.

> Spacecraft that fall in the first two tiers can be approved by their sponsoring agency and an interagency panel, and only the highest-risk third tier missions require presidential authorization.

> Bernstein said the lower-tier missions can now work through the Federal Aviation Administration, “for the first time allowing a commercial entity to launch a nuclear power system spacecraft into space.” Zeno is pursuing launch approval as a tier-one mission.

interesting