fbpx

21.01.

1954: The World’s First Nuclear-Powered Submarine was Named the same as Captain Nemo’s

1954: The World’s First Nuclear-Powered Submarine was Named the same as Captain Nemo’s
Photo Credit To http://pdxretro.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/LAUNCHING-OF-THE-USS-NAUTILUS-MAIN.jpg

Nuclear propulsion was of revolutionary significance for submarines because it enabled them to remain submerged far longer than before. Namely, the classic diesel or steam engine requires oxygen for combustion, while a nuclear reactor does not need any to function.



The first nuclear submarine in history was launched on this day in 1954. It was made in the USA and was given the name Nautilus, the same as Captain Nemo’s submarine from the novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea by Jules Verne.

Nuclear propulsion was of revolutionary significance for submarines because it enabled them to remain submerged far longer than before. Namely, the classic diesel of steam engine requires oxygen for combustion, while a nuclear reactor does not need any to function. Besides, nuclear submarines do not have to return to port often to refuel, because one reactor charge can last dozens of years.

Nautilus had one Westinghouse nuclear reactor, which allowed a maximum of 13,400 hp. The submarine was able to achieve a speed of up to 23 knots. Nuclear propulsion has enabled Nautilus to break a series of previous submarine records. She completed the first successful submerged voyage beneath the arctic ice around the North Pole.

Facebook Comments Box









Related posts