NASA plans to put a nuclear reactor on the moon
14 days ago
- #nuclear reactor
- #NASA
- #moon mission
- NASA plans to place a nuclear reactor on the moon by 2030 to power a human base.
- The reactor would generate at least 100 kilowatts of electricity, less than typical Earth reactors.
- Nuclear power is necessary for sustained lunar habitation due to long lunar nights.
- Moon-based reactors must radiate excess heat into space, requiring large radiators.
- Risks include moonquakes and meteorite strikes, but radioactive contamination is less likely than on Earth.
- Safety concerns focus on reactor transport and re-entry, not operation on the moon.
- The project faces challenges, including budget cuts and workforce reductions at NASA.
- The U.S. aims to beat China and Russia in establishing a lunar presence.
- Developing the reactor could cost around $3 billion over five years.
- Experts urge prioritizing science and international collaboration over being first.