How does a nuclear rocket get propelled?

Question

A normal rocket gets propelled by exhaust, how does a nuclear driven rocket gets propelled?

In: Engineering

Answer 1

Do you mean [project orion?](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Orion_(nuclear_propulsion))

The idea was to release and detonate atomic bombs behind the rocket, which would push a base plate, which was connected to the rocket via shock absorbers.

This would produce insane amounts of radiation, so the crew would have to be heavily shielded. In addition launching from earth using this method would decimate the local environment.

The plan was scrapped when the nuclear test band treaty came into effect.