Location History:
- West Jordan, UT (US) (1995)
- Seattle, WA (US) (1985 - 2014)
- Henderson, NV (US) (2014 - 2016)
- Normandy Park, WA (US) (2019)
Company Filing History:
6 out of 22,311 
2 out of 2 
1 out of 1 Years Active: 1985-2019
Title: Richard A. Hardy: Innovator in Nuclear Thermal Propulsion
Introduction
Richard A. Hardy, a prolific inventor from West Jordan, Utah, holds an impressive portfolio of 16 patents. His innovative work primarily focuses on nuclear thermal propulsion systems, aimed at revolutionizing the field of rocket engineering. Through his groundbreaking inventions, Hardy demonstrates a commitment to advancing space exploration technologies.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents are two notable designs for nuclear rocket engines. The first, titled "Fuel Retention Reactor for Nuclear Rocket Engine," introduces a nuclear thermal propulsion engine utilizing a carrier fluid with neutron moderating constituents like hydrogen or carbon. This system cleverly incorporates a neutron source, ensuring the containment of fissionable materials during acceleration. The reactor is designed to achieve a specific impulse ranging from 800 to 2500 seconds, thereby enhancing rocket performance significantly.
His second patent, "Nuclear Rocket Engine with Pebble Fuel Source," further enhances this technology by utilizing a bed of fuel pebbles containing fissionable materials within the reactor. The design allows for efficient heat energy release and fluid discharge, maintaining the same impressive specific impulse as the previous invention, effectively pushing the boundaries of rocket engineering capabilities.
Career Highlights
Richard Hardy has had an illustrious career, with experience working at The Boeing Company, a leader in aerospace innovation. His dedication to developing cutting-edge technologies showcases his passion for pushing the envelope in engineering and science. With a focus on nuclear propulsion, Hardy's inventions are at the forefront of efforts to create more efficient and powerful rocket engines.
Collaborations
During his career, Hardy has collaborated with notable professionals in the field, including Frank D. Neumann and Jonathan Hardy. These partnerships have bolstered his research and development efforts, resulting in advancements that could shape the future of space travel.
Conclusion
Richard A. Hardy's contributions to the field of nuclear thermal propulsion demonstrate the significant impact of innovative minds in pushing the boundaries of technology. With his 16 patents, Hardy continues to inspire future generations of inventors and engineers, making strides toward more efficient and powerful rocket systems that could redefine space exploration.