The multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator, depicted in the image above, is designed to power various missions using thermoelectric technology.
The directive is a formal strategy aimed at advancing nuclear resources for the Artemis mission and its future endeavors.
These initial strategies involve the use of fission reactors and nuclear batteries.
We share a mutual love for nuclear and would love to geek out about it together.
Although chemical fuels remain the preferred choice for launches, such as for satellites and other intraspace uses where solar power is suitable, the Trump administration and NASA both acknowledge the need for a more advanced energy system to support the idea of establishing a human presence on the moon.
Currently, the agreement is dependent on safe and well-known technology that is widely utilized worldwide and has also been successfully implemented in space.
Please take a moment to go through this.
A Possible Solution for Reaching Mars in Just 3 Months
According to the White House’s fact sheet, “Space Policy Directive-6” focuses on space nuclear power and propulsion (SNPP), which encompasses generating electricity and heat for future moon installations and the propulsion system that will potentially transport NASA to Mars.
Spacecraft missions often require the use of space nuclear systems as alternative power sources may not be sufficient. This is especially true for environments that lack adequate sunlight for solar power or are too distant to carry enough chemical fuels. These space nuclear systems comprise of radioisotope power systems (RPSs) and nuclear reactors that serve the purpose of providing power, heat, and/or propulsion.
For many years, Radioisotope power systems (RPSs) have been utilized without any safety concerns. Their structure has also served as a model for the development of modern nuclear micro-reactors. These systems operate as enclosed units, utilizing a continuous nuclear reaction to generate energy without the use of any mechanical components.
A Potential Game-Changing Energy Source: The Miniature Nuclear Reactor
In contrast to terrestrial nuclear power facilities, which typically utilize nuclear energy to produce steam for generating power, these “nuclear batteries” solely rely on temperature difference to generate electricity.
What is the significance of this directive, aside from providing a thorough explanation of SNPPs? While certain technologies such as terrestrial nuclear fission plants or satellite-powered batteries are currently being utilized, this does not necessarily mean they are suitable for use in lunar rovers or for construction on the moon’s surface.
The utilization scenarios vary, the surroundings are diverse, and even dependable technologies are constantly advancing. This implies that in 2024, when NASA intends to send the next man and first woman to the moon, those astronauts will most likely utilize an entirely new generation of nuclear batteries for their individual duties.
NASA is currently conducting studies on the most suitable nuclear power plant for usage on the moon, modifying current fission technology (which is currently used for all nuclear plants on Earth) to fit the unique conditions of the moon. This presents a significant obstacle as the moon has varying surface materials, a distinct temperature range, significantly lower gravity, and so on.
Is It Feasible to Construct a Nuclear Reactor on the Moon?
Whatever NASA creates must be transported to the moon in pieces that are suitable for payload. It would be similar to the sudden choice of placing a nuclear plant on top of Mount Everest or on the bottom of the ocean – a completely different scenario.
NASA’s future plans involve exploring the potential uses of experimental nuclear reactors, such as fusion and molten salt, for both Earth research and intergalactic travel. It is not logical to delay studying the feasibility of using fusion on other planets or as a means of propulsion until it becomes more advanced. However, for the time being, there are already reliable technologies available to transport us to the moon.