- U.S. acting NASA administrator Sean Duffy is pushing for a 100-kilowatt nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030 to support long-term missions.
- The first nation to establish a reactor could secure a strategic advantage in space operations, with China targeting its own Moon landing by the same year.
- Nuclear power offers constant, reliable energy for critical systems like oxygen generation and communications, unlike weather-dependent renewables.
- NASA also plans to replace the ageing ISS with commercial space stations, with contracts expected to be awarded within six months.
The United States Secretary of Transportation and NASA’s acting administrator, Sean Duffy, has outlined an ambitious plan to establish a nuclear reactor on the Moon’s surface. Framing it as the “second space race,” Duffy emphasized the need to compete with China and Russia in securing leadership in space exploration and infrastructure. According to a report by Business Standard, NASA has been tasked with developing a 100-kilowatt reactor for deployment by 2030.
Strategic Importance of a Lunar Nuclear Reactor
Control over energy infrastructure in space could determine dominance in future space operations. Sean Duffy noted that the first nation to install a reactor on the Moon could establish a “keep-out” zone, limiting access for others. China’s plan to land its first astronaut on the Moon by 2030 underscores the urgency for the U.S., India, and other nations to advance space-based nuclear technologies.
For NASA, a nuclear reactor would provide a consistent and reliable power source to sustain long-term lunar missions. Unlike solar or other renewable sources that rely on environmental conditions, nuclear energy can deliver uninterrupted electricity. This power could support essential systems, including oxygen generation, communications, and life-support equipment, enabling extended astronaut stays and deeper exploration.
The growing interest in nuclear power is not limited to space agencies. Major technology companies are increasingly investing in nuclear energy to meet rising power demands, particularly for AI operations. In space, such reactors could be vital for maintaining operational capacity regardless of environmental challenges.
Duffy’s directive also includes replacing the ageing International Space Station (ISS) with commercially operated platforms by 2030. Companies such as Axiom Space, Vast, and Blue Origin have already submitted proposals. NASA intends to select at least two partners within six months, aiming to accelerate U.S. ambitions for sustained presence on the Moon and future missions to Mars.
Did you subscribe to our Daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Business Standards
