[Rebel_Ace]

I believe he is referring to the use of Nuclear Explosions to power a payload into orbit (or beyond). I think this design was known by the name 'ORION'.

Basically, a big shield called the "pusher plate" would have a bunch of atomic bombs fired off behind it in a controlled sequence. The actual payload would be protected on the opposite side of the pusher plate, cushioned by an elaborate shock absorbing system.

[Tennessee_Bob]

Basically, a big shield called the "pusher plate" would have a bunch of atomic bombs fired off behind it in a controlled sequence.

 Wouldn't that leave the launch pad extremely dirty?

I'm thinking that Tehran would be a good place for the next Cape Canaveral.