• bimodal
• moon
• nuclear
• propulsion
• radiation
• safety
• shielding

The thesis presents a deep analysis of some of the most relevant safety aspects of nuclear systems for space propulsion applications. The studies are part of UniPi's BANTER project, developing a bimodal (thermal and electric) nuclear propulsion system for an Earth-to-Moon cargo shuttle. The first topic analyzed is the optimized design and sizing of the radiation shielding, in order to ensure proper protection against neutron flux and gamma dose for the payload and the spacecraft during the entire mission duration. Furthermore, considerations and analyses related to the beginning-of-life (BOL) phase of the spacecraft and to the end-of-life (EOL) disposal strategies are addressed, including the feasibility and selection of possible Nuclear Safe Orbits (NSO) to mitigate the risks associated with hypothesized failures and decommissioning of the propulsion system.