NASA has issued a request for information for a fission power system that will potentially be utilized for crewed missions to the Moon and Mars.
Fission Surface Power System for Future Space Missions
The agency said Thursday it is seeking feedback from the space industry regarding a fission surface power system capable of generating at least 100 kilowatts of electricity and weighing less than 15 metric tons. The system will also utilize a closed Brayton cycle power conversion system to convert heat to electricity.
NASA aims to deploy a nuclear reactor on the Moon by the mid-2030s. The technology will be used for exploring the moon and eventually Mars and will also be leveraged for national security. Aside from providing continuous power, the nuclear reactor can be deployed in areas on the Moon that are not reached by sunlight or during prolonged lunar nights.
Interested vendors can submit their responses to the RFI by Aug. 21.
Remarks From Fission Surface Power Program Executive
Steve Sinacore, Fission Surface Power program executive, said, “Today’s call for industry input is an important step toward engaging the commercial space industry in powering the lunar economy and enabling future human exploration on Mars. Developing a safe, reliable and efficient power supply is key to unlocking the future of human space exploration and ensuring America retains its dominance in space.”
