NASA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) have announced a partnership to develop a nuclear reactor for the Moon, aiming for completion by 2030. This initiative is intended to provide a reliable power source for lunar bases, overcoming the challenges posed by prolonged periods of darkness that solar panels and batteries cannot adequately address. The agreement is part of the Artemis program and future Mars missions, signaling a commitment to nuclear power in space exploration. The DOE is also revising its nuclear regulations, which could impact costs and timelines for projects involving radioactive materials. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Westinghouse are involved in exploring fission surface power designs, with contracts awarded to them in 2022. The proposed lunar reactor could run for years without needing refueling. However, there are concerns regarding the safety implications of the DOE's shift away from the "As Low As Reasonably Achievable" principle, potentially affecting costs and safety in nuclear projects. While Lockheed Martin and other related companies saw stock increases, uncertainties remain, including the lack of cost estimates for the lunar reactor and the complexities of engineering and regulatory approvals that could lead to delays. Overall, this development reflects a significant step towards integrating nuclear power into future lunar and Mars missions.
Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:42:40 GMT | TechStock²