<p>The U.S. space agency will aim to send a nuclear-powered spacecraft to Mars&mdash;a first&mdash;in a bid to show that nuclear propulsion can be used to send missions into deep space</p>
Nuclear propulsion refers to the use of nuclear reactions to generate thrust for spacecraft. This technology has the potential to enable faster travel to distant destinations in space, such as Mars and beyond, by providing a more efficient and powerful means of propulsion compared to conventional chemical rockets.
Mars exploration involves the study and investigation of Mars through various missions and technologies, including orbiters, landers, and rovers. These missions aim to understand the planet's geology, climate, and potential for past or present life.