NASA’s ambitious Fission Surface Power Project aims to establish a nuclear reactor on the Moon, marking a significant milestone in lunar exploration. Recently, the initial phase of this multi-year project was completed, laying the foundation for a small nuclear-powered generator designed to support habitats, rovers, and scientific experiments, even throughout the Moon’s extended 14.5-day-long nights.
Three companies, each receiving a $5 million contract in 2022, are tasked with designing the reactor. Their creations encompass various components, including the reactor itself, power conversion systems, heat management, and distribution networks. NASA has mandated specific requirements: a weight limit of under 6 metric tons, a power output of 40 kilowatts—sufficient to power approximately 33 US households—and an operational lifespan of 10 years without human intervention. Safety, particularly concerning radiation, and the capability for remote control are also paramount.
A distinct challenge for lunar missions is the prolonged darkness due to lunar nights. Unlike Earth, where night falls for only hours, the Moon experiences two-week-long periods of darkness, making solar power infeasible during this time. A nuclear reactor effectively addresses this issue by ensuring a continuous energy supply, which is crucial for sustaining a long-term lunar presence. Additionally, it has the potential to be situated in permanently shadowed craters, which may harbor water ice—a vital resource for future lunar bases.
NASA’s exploration strategy is intentionally broad, inviting innovative solutions without strict specifications. The feedback from the contracted companies has resulted in diverse proposals, each addressing reactor design, fuel types, and fault management in unique ways. Project manager Lindsay Kaldon has indicated that the agency is currently reviewing these proposals and plans to extend the contracts for further refinement before transitioning into Phase 2 in 2025. During this phase, a final design will be selected for a lunar demonstration, with a target launch planned for the early 2030s.
Following its lunar deployment, the reactor will undergo a one-year test run and then continue its operation for an additional nine years to validate its performance. If successful, the design can be adapted for Mars, where conditions are even more challenging. The reactor’s autonomous 10-year operation capability significantly minimizes the need for human oversight in environments where repairs would be particularly difficult.
In parallel, NASA is also focused on enhancing the conversion of nuclear heat into usable electricity. Recent contracts awarded to Rolls Royce North American Technologies, Brayton Energy, and General Electric aim to develop more efficient Brayton power converters. These systems convert heat to electricity by spinning turbines, but current models tend to waste considerable energy. Improving their efficiency will ensure that the reactor maximizes its power output, optimizing energy use on the Moon’s harsh surface.
Overall, NASA’s Fission Surface Power Project not only signifies a leap in lunar exploration technology but also reflects a forward-thinking approach to extraterrestrial habitats and the sustainability of human presence beyond Earth. The agency’s long-term vision embraces innovative solutions that could one day pave the way for life on Mars and beyond.