NASA is progressing with its Fission Surface Power (FSP) project, aiming to develop a small, electricity-generating nuclear fission reactor for future lunar missions. This initiative is part of NASA's broader strategy to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon, addressing the challenges posed by the lunar night, which lasts approximately 14.5 Earth days. A reliable power source like the FSP system is crucial for long-term exploration and scientific endeavors on the lunar surface.
In 2022, NASA awarded contracts to three teams—Lockheed Martin, Westinghouse, and IX (a joint venture of Intuitive Machines and X-Energy)—tasking them with developing initial designs for the reactor and its associated systems. These designs include power conversion, heat rejection, and power management and distribution systems, with the goal of supporting a human presence on the Moon for at least a decade. The reactors are required to be under six metric tons and capable of producing 40 kilowatts of electrical power, sufficient for operating lunar habitats, rovers, and scientific experiments. The reactors should also be capable of operating for a decade without human intervention, ensuring safety and reliability during lunar missions.
Beyond the technical specifications, the FSP project underscores the growing international competition in space exploration. China and Russia have also announced plans to develop lunar nuclear reactors, aiming to establish a permanent presence on the Moon. This global race highlights the strategic importance of lunar infrastructure and the role of energy independence in sustaining long-term missions. The development of nuclear reactors on the Moon could revolutionize space exploration by providing a continuous and reliable power source, essential for future missions to Mars and beyond.
As NASA continues to advance the FSP project, it remains committed to international collaboration and the peaceful use of outer space. The agency emphasizes the importance of transparency, safety, and responsible exploration practices, aligning with the principles outlined in the Artemis Accords. These efforts aim to foster a cooperative environment in space exploration, ensuring that advancements in lunar technology benefit all of humanity.