Ok, I guess I'll preface this by saying sometimes I suffer from Mars tunnel vision. In terms of a "Mars Direct" type mission plan, NTR is the way to go. I take it from your previous posts that you agree with this....

VASIMR is a neat system in theory, but I'm not sure it's appropriate for a Crewed Mars mission which is for what it's been touted as the optimal propulsion system.

Let's at least get one to a local cinder before we talk about outer
solar system missions.

Truthfully, I haven't even thought of it in over a year, their website
hasnt been updated since before I was aquainted with the concept.
Anyone seen new developments in this field lately, conference
presentations of substance, journal publications or lab hardware thats
more impressive than a Hydrogen lamp?

Not close minded, just extremely sceptical. Convince me if you can.....

et ( the nuclear powered "greenie" )