Additional Coverage:
- Inside NASA’s fast-track plans for lunar nuclear power and new space stations to outpace global rivals (foxnews.com)
NASA Aims for the Moon and Beyond with Nuclear Power and New Space Stations
Facing a new space race with rivals like China and Russia, NASA is accelerating plans to develop nuclear reactors for the moon and next-generation space stations, even as the agency grapples with budget cuts.
Interim NASA Administrator and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently signed two memos outlining this ambitious strategy. A key component is the development of a lunar nuclear reactor, offering a reliable power source independent of the moon’s challenging day-night cycle.
This reactor, according to a senior NASA official, will power “everything” from habitats and rovers to future mining operations. This is crucial because the moon’s two-week-long periods of darkness make solar power impractical.
This push comes as China and Russia are reportedly planning a joint lunar nuclear project by the mid-2030s. NASA officials warn that if these nations succeed first, they could control the most resource-rich areas of the moon, potentially establishing exclusion zones. “They’re moving on a steady path to dominate this domain,” a NASA official stated, highlighting China’s landing on the far side of the moon, a feat the US has yet to accomplish.
The directive calls for proposals for a 100-kilowatt reactor, capable of powering roughly 80 homes, with a target launch date of 2030. It also mandates the appointment of a dedicated program leader. This represents a significant leap from the low-power systems currently used on robotic spacecraft, which limit scientific capabilities.
Duffy’s second memo addresses the aging International Space Station (ISS), slated for retirement in 2030. To avoid ceding orbital leadership to China, NASA plans to select two commercial partners within six months to develop replacement stations.
Using flexible Space Act Agreements, the agency aims to foster innovation and cost-effectiveness by giving companies more autonomy in design and construction. The new stations are expected to be more affordable and easier to maintain than the ISS, although the crew capacity and mission duration requirements have been reduced.
These initiatives come amidst significant budgetary constraints. NASA’s proposed 2026 budget reflects a 25% decrease, with the Science Mission Directorate facing a nearly 50% cut.
Human spaceflight programs, however, are expected to see increased funding. Additionally, approximately 4,000 NASA employees have accepted voluntary buyouts.
Despite these challenges, NASA remains confident. Officials believe they can achieve their goals within the proposed timelines and budget, with some suggesting that a new commercial station could be operational within two years.