Atom Drive

"Atom Drive" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction story where two companies fiercely compete to control the space routes between Earth and Mars. Captain Jonner Jons, piloting the "Radiant Hope," seeks to disrupt the Mars Corporation's dominance with his new atomic drive system. Jonner’s plan is based on using constant, efficient acceleration to undercut their rival's costs, but the Mars Corporation responds with dirty tricks and sabotage pushing Jonner and his crew to their limits. A major setback occurs when their own doctor betrays them causing many problems along the way, and Jonner must use all his skills to overcome the challenges thrown at him. The story builds to a thrilling race, highlighting the innovation and grit needed to make progress in the growing sector of space transportation.