Rolls-Royce, the U.K. tech giant, has revealed a concept nuclear reactor designed to power a future lunar outpost. The mini reactor, approximately 3.3 feet (1 meter) wide and 10 feet (3 meters) long, is part of a potentially groundbreaking moon technology project. Although not yet capable of producing electricity, Rolls-Royce plans to ready it for space deployment in about six years, with the U.K. Space Agency providing £2.9 million ($3.7 million U.S.) in funding.
The Space Micro-Reactor Concept Model relies on nuclear fission, the same process used in Earth-based nuclear power plants. Unlike previous moon missions that mainly utilized solar energy, the reactor aims to address limitations associated with lunar darkness during a two-week period every month.
While solar energy and radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) have been employed in previous moon missions, the new moon reactor by Rolls-Royce presents a modular design and various potential applications on Earth. The company aims to explore methods for converting heat generated by nuclear fission into electricity, considering the unique challenges of space applications.
Abi Clayton, Director of Future Programs at Rolls-Royce, highlighted the crucial role of the £2.9 million funding in advancing research and development for the Micro-Reactor. The technology, if successful, could support commercial and defense applications and contribute to decarbonizing industry while providing clean, safe, and reliable energy.
Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the U.K. Space Agency, emphasized the potential of Rolls-Royce’s innovative research in paving the way for continuous human presence on the moon, creating job opportunities, and generating further investment in the U.K. space sector. The unveiling of the Space Micro-Reactor Concept Model took place at the U.K. Space Conference in Belfast.
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