Rolls-Royce introduces the Space Micro-Reactor model for Moon exploration at the UK Space Conference.
In March 2023, Rolls-Royce received a funding boost of £2.9m from the UK Space Agency to support the research on using nuclear power for a future Moon base.
Rolls-Royce scientists in collaboration with strategic partners, have been tackling various aspects of the Micro-Reactor under the UK Space Agency’s funded program. The focus has been on three critical features: the fuel for heat generation, the heat transfer method, and the technology converting heat into electricity.
Every space mission relies on a power source, and the Micro-Reactor, being a compact and powerful solution compared to other power systems, can supply energy for planetary habitation, exploration, or spacecraft power and propulsion.
The Micro-Reactor offers continuous power regardless of location, sunlight availability, or environmental conditions.
Rolls-Royce aims to have a functional reactor ready for deployment to the Moon by the early 2030s.
Image credit Rolls-Royce
source Rolls-Royce
