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When were the first nuclear-powered vessels launched?

A nuclear-powered vessel is propelled by a controlled nuclear reaction which generates tremendous heat. This heat turns water into steam for running turbine engines (machines that convert the kinetic energy of moving fluids to mechanical power). The U.S.S. Nautilus was the first submarine to be propelled by nuclear power, making her first sea run on January 17, 1955. (U.S.S. stands for "United States Ship" or "United States Steamer.") It has been called the first true submarine since it can remain underwater for an indefinite period of time. The Nautilus, which is 324 feet (99 meters) long, can travel up to 2,500 miles (4,023 kilometers) and at a speed of 20 knots when submerged (one knot equals one nautical mile per hour, which equals approximately 1.15 miles per hour on land). It has a diving depth of 700 feet (213 meters).

The...

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