The UK Space Agency (UKSA) has backed research by Rolls-Royce looking at the use of nuclear power on the moon.
Major Highlights:
- Researchers from Rolls-Royce are working on a Micro-Reactor program to develop technology that will provide the power needed for humans to live and work on the Moon.
- The UKSA will provide £2.9 million ($3.52 million) of funding for the project and the firm has been asked to demonstrate how nuclear microreactors could extend the duration of future missions to the Moon.
- Rolls has forecasted that its first car-sized reactor would be ready to be sent to the Moon by 2029. Relatively small and lightweight compared to other power systems, a nuclear micro-reactor for the Moon could enable continuous power regardless of location, available sunlight, and other environmental conditions.
