The SNAP-10A reactor power system

April 10, 2024, 9:31AMNuclear NewsJeremy Hampshire
Left: A technician inserts a steel tube containing fuel into the SNAP-10A reactor core vessel. (Photo: DOE) Right: A cross-section view of the reactor. (Image: DOE)

Systems for Nuclear Auxiliary Power (SNAP) was an Atomic Energy Commission program with the goal of producing a portable and dependable power source centered around nuclear technology that could be utilized in land, sea, and space applications. The program aimed to provide a compact reactor—a necessity for space applications—and ran from 1955 until 1973, when it was discontinued.

To continue reading, log in or create a free account!

Related Articles

ANS Congressional Fellowship applications due

May 29, 2025, 3:20PMANS News

Applications for the American Nuclear Society’s Glenn T. Seaborg Congressional Science and Engineering Fellowship are due June 6. ANS will be sponsoring two Fellows for the 2026 term, both...

Open house on the NS Savannah

May 16, 2025, 12:00PMANS Nuclear Cafe

In commemoration of National Maritime Day, there will be an open house on the NS Savannah this Sunday, May 18, in Baltimore, Md. The world’s first nuclear-powered merchant ship, Savannah was...

Jay F. Kunze—ANS member since 1960

December 16, 2024, 7:01AMNuclear News

We welcome ANS members with long careers in the community to submit their own stories so that the personal history of nuclear power can be captured. For information on submitting your stories,...