NASA to Deploy Nuclear Reactors for Moon Missions

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 23:24:00 +0200

NASA is embarking on an ambitious plan to integrate nuclear reactors into future lunar missions, marking a significant advancement in space exploration technology. The initiative aims to provide a reliable and sustainable power source for long-duration lunar operations, including potential lunar bases and resource utilization. Currently, lunar missions rely heavily on solar power, which is susceptible to limitations posed by the Moon's shadowed regions and seasonal variations. Nuclear reactors offer a consistent and high-capacity energy supply, independent of sunlight, facilitating more complex and continuous activities on the lunar surface. This plan aligns with broader NASA goals of establishing a sustained human presence on the Moon, as part of the Artemis program, and ultimately, serving as a stepping stone for missions to Mars. The technology will involve small, modular reactors designed for lunar deployment and operation. While detailed specifications and timelines remain under d