NASA commits to a lunar nuclear reactor by 2030

NASA and the Department of Energy signed a memorandum to develop a small nuclear fission reactor for the lunar surface with a target deployment by 2030, and officials say the reactor would provide continuous power for Artemis and future Mars missions.

NASA and the Department of Energy have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a small nuclear fission reactor for the lunar surface, with a stated goal of deployment by 2030. The planned reactor is intended to provide steady power for the Artemis campaign and support future missions to Mars. The move follows a December executive order calling for renewed focus on space nuclear reactors and statements by senior officials endorsing the effort. Experts quoted in reporting say the timeline is ambitious and that technical, launch and landing capabilities will be important to its feasibility. Key facts: - The agencies signed a memorandum aimed at developing nuclear reactors for the lunar surface and for orbit. - Officials describe the system as a fission surface power reactor that would split uranium atoms to generate heat, which is converted to electricity. - NASA says a reactor would need to be small and lightweight, provide at least 40 kilowatts of power, and operate for years without refuelling. - A December presidential executive order called for renewed attention to space reactors and for maintaining "American space superiority," according to reports. - Some experts in published coverage called a 2030 deployment "doable," while others questioned the feasibility and noted the need for a suitable launch vehicle and lunar landing capability. Summary: If realised, the reactor would aim to supply continuous electrical power to lunar infrastructure and support Artemis and other deep-space planning. Agencies have formalised cooperation and stated a 2030 target, but officials and analysts note technical, launch and landing challenges remain. Undetermined at this time.