Rocket nozzle assembly with separable nozzle extension

A rocket nozzle assembly comprising:

• a nozzle removably coupled with a nozzle extension via a connector extending annularly about an interface of the nozzle and the nozzle extension, the nozzle extending from a first inboard end to a first outboard end, the first outboard end having a larger diameter than the first inboard end, the nozzle extension extending from a second inboard end to a second outboard end, the second outboard end having a larger diameter than the second inboard end, and the second inboard end removably coupled with the first outboard end;
• and
• one or more actuators, each actuator comprising:
• a first portion attached to a first end of the connector;
• a second portion attached to a second, opposing end of the connector;
• and
• an explosive bolt configured to releasably secure the first portion with the second portion, the explosive bolt having an elongated structure configured to extend linearly and tangentially along the interface from the first portion to the second portion, the elongated structure comprising a pyrotechnic charge configured to fracture and break the elongated structure to thereby release the second inboard end from the first outboard end.