The objective is to produce energy independently and reduce the need for constant fuel transport to the Moon.
NASA and the US Department of Energy (DOE) reaffirmed their commitment to developing a nuclear fission reactor capable of operating on the surface of the Moon, a project that aims to support long-term human and robotic exploration.
According to a joint statement, the two agencies hope to complete the reactor development phase by 2030, including extensive testing on Earth.
The proposed reactor would provide a continuous and reliable power source for future lunar missions, reducing dependence on solar energy and eliminating the need for frequent fuel deliveries from Earth. NASA says such a system is essential for sustained exploration, particularly in regions of the Moon that have long periods of darkness.
Designing a nuclear reactor for the Moon presents major engineering challenges. Even on Earth, fission reactors require complex security systems and cooling. On the Moon, these difficulties are amplified by extreme environmental conditions, including low gravity, vacuum pressure and drastic temperature variations, explains .
One of the most significant obstacles is waste heat management. Earth-based reactors typically use water-based cooling systems which depend on atmospheric convection to dissipate heat. The Moon does not have a substantial atmosphere, and fluids behave differently in low gravity, forcing engineers to explore alternative cooling methods. Potential solutions include solid-state heat conduction or liquid metal coolers, although both add technical complexity and risk.
Lunar dust poses another serious concern. Unlike Earth or Mars, the Moon’s dust is highly abrasive and charged electrostatically due to constant exposure to solar radiation. Fine particles adhere to surfaces and can interfere with mechanical and electronic systems, requiring reactor components to be carefully sealed and shielded.
A radiation protection it is also a critical consideration. Any reactor installed on the Moon must include sufficient shielding to protect astronauts and sensitive equipment operating nearby. At the same time, the system needs to be robust and largely self-sustaining, as maintenance opportunities on the lunar surface will be extremely limited.
NASA and the Department of Energy (DOE) emphasize that the project builds on years of previous research into space nuclear power. Current plans focus on developing a reactor capable of producing at least 40 kilowatts of electricity — enough to power around 30 homes continuously for a decade.
Although the initial design phase has been completed, authorities warn that transforming these plans into equipment ready to fly It will be a gradual process. Progress will depend not only on engineering advances, but also regulatory approvals and long-term funding commitments.
