nuclear power
China outlines pathway for lunar and deep space exploration
China has laid out its pathway for robotic and crewed lunar and deep space exploration, with a number of missions building towards a permanent moon base.
Chinese megawatt-level space nuclear reactor passes review
A Chinese nuclear reactor for providing power and propulsion in outer space has passed a comprehensive performance evaluation, according to reports.
DIU selects nuclear-powered spacecraft designs for 2027 demonstrations
The Defense Innovation Unit announced May 17 it selected Ultra Safe Nuclear Corp. and Avalanche to develop small nuclear-powered spacecraft for in-space demonstrations planned for 2027.
DoD looking for commercially available nuclear propulsion for small spacecraft
The Defense Innovation Unit last week issued a call for bids for small nuclear-powered engines for space missions beyond Earth orbit.
Op-ed | America’s permanent and resilient presence in space will be nuclear powered
As Congress prepares NASA’s budget for fiscal year 2022, it has a valuable opportunity to ensure that America remains the world’s leader in sustainable space exploration by continuing to fund the development of advanced space nuclear technology.
White House executive order promotes development of space and defense nuclear power systems
Less than a month after issuing a policy directive on space nuclear power, the White House released an executive order Jan. 12 seeking to promote the development of small nuclear reactors for space and defense applications.
White House releases space nuclear power strategy
The White House released a new space policy directive Dec. 16 intended to serve as a strategic roadmap for the development of space nuclear power and propulsion technologies.
NASA to seek proposals for lunar nuclear power system
NASA and the Department of Energy will seek proposals for industry later this year for the development of a compact nuclear power system that can support the agency’s long-term lunar and Martian exploration plans.
Foust Forward | Space nuclear power tries to get some satisfaction
The argument that supporters of space nuclear power make is that the technology is essential for NASA’s long-term exploration effort. Advocates have tried to make that case for decades, but only now seem to be gaining traction.
Op-ed | Earth’s orbit and atmosphere both need nuclear power
Experimental laser weapons have been fielded for decades, but the enabling technologies and threats that make them practical in battle have matured considerably in recent years.
Op-ed | Nuclear vulnerability: In-orbit bodyguards would help protect NC3 satellites from attacks
At this 11th hour, the United States can still close the window of nuclear vulnerability, provided it can choose the right approach and act now.
NASA considering flight test of space nuclear reactor technology
After a successful campaign of ground tests, NASA is considering performing a flight test of a small nuclear reactor, possibly on a lunar lander mission in the mid-2020s.
