LV-N "Nerv"
 Deep Space Hydrogen Engine | |||||||||||
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| Mass | 3.000 t | ||||||||||
| Size | SM | ||||||||||
| Max Temp | 1500 K | ||||||||||
| Impact Tolerance | 15 m/s | ||||||||||
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The LV-N "Nerv" is a deep space hydrogen engine. It features a long shape and a singular nozzle design suited for highly efficient deep space travel. It is unlocked from Nuclear Propulsion in Tier 2 of the Tech Tree.
Usage
The Nerv is a hydrogen-fueled rocket engine, unlike most others which burn methalox.
In a vacuum the Nerv is greatly efficient with its Isp of 900 s, roughly three times greater than any methalox engine. This makes it a suitable choice for small-scale interplanetary transfer stages even with its modest thrust of 75 kN. In atmosphere, however, the Nerv is incredibly ineffective. Low Isp, 250 s, matched with low thrust, 20.8 kN, provide little power for moving around.
The Nerv does not have any gimbal capability. That feature paired with its lengthy shape make it a poor choice for landers in most situations. Its SM allows for it to be easily used with engine plates or multi-node adapters, but this is often a less efficient choice than using a single LV-SW "SWERV" engine instead which offers nearly three times the thrust-to-weight ratio.
Synopsis
“The LV-N “Nerv” is the very first nuclear-powered rocket engine. It may be an insane approach to rocket propulsion, but it boasts a staggering ISP in vacuum, making it much more efficient than conventional methalox engines. Yes, it may be a little radioactive, but more glow means more go, right?”
Trivia
- The Nerv has a bigger sibling part, the LV-SW "SWERV".
- The "Nerv" nickname is likely a reference to NERVA, or "Nuclear Engine for Rocket Vehicle Application", a NASA program to create a nuclear thermal rocket.
Changes
- Initial release
See also