US Aims to Boost Space Energy Dominance with Nuclear Tech

Researchers outline strategies to accelerate development of nuclear power systems for space exploration and missions.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Researchers are working to develop reliable nuclear reactor designs to provide power generation for future space missions to the Moon and Mars. The Idaho National Laboratory is playing a pivotal role in facilitating these space nuclear power and propulsion strategies, with specialized staff and facilities to support the advancement of these critical technologies. The report outlines three potential paths forward, ranging from an ambitious large-scale project to a more gradual approach, all aimed at ensuring the US maintains leadership in this crucial area of space exploration.

Why it matters

Reliable energy sources are essential for the success and safety of space exploration, but the extreme conditions of space present unique challenges. Developing nuclear reactor technologies tailored for space can significantly boost what humans can achieve beyond Earth's orbit, from powering lunar outposts to enabling deep space missions. Maintaining US leadership in this field has important geopolitical implications as well.

The details

The report funded by the Idaho National Laboratory, "Weighing the Future: Strategic Options for U.S. Space Nuclear Leadership", suggests several possible avenues for success in meeting NASA's goal of placing a fission-based nuclear reactor on the Moon by fiscal year 2030. Key differences between terrestrial and space-bound nuclear reactors include the need to minimize weight while ensuring robustness, operating at much higher temperatures, and designing for 10-year maintenance-free lifespans to endure harsh space conditions.

  • NASA issued a directive on fission surface power and intends to place a reactor on the Moon in fiscal year 2030.

The players

Idaho National Laboratory

The lead national laboratory supporting space reactor efforts, coordinating across multiple labs to develop the technologies, capabilities and infrastructure needed to ensure mission success.

Sebastian Corbisiero

The Department of Energy Space Reactor Initiative national technical director.

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What they’re saying

“It might sound like science fiction, but it's not. It is very realistic and can significantly boost what humans can do in space because fission reactors provide a step increase in the amount of available power. What we need now is a clear path forward.”

— Sebastian Corbisiero, Department of Energy Space Reactor Initiative national technical director

“We're potentially on the cusp of a major step forward regarding nuclear power for space applications. To be a part of an effort like this — that is as exciting as it gets. That's something you tell your grandkids.”

— Sebastian Corbisiero, Department of Energy Space Reactor Initiative national technical director

What’s next

NASA is collaborating with other federal agencies, national laboratories and private companies to create reliable nuclear reactors to provide power generation for the moon and Mars, with the goal of placing a reactor on the lunar surface by fiscal year 2030.

The takeaway

Developing advanced nuclear reactor technologies tailored for the unique challenges of the space environment is crucial for the future of space exploration and US leadership in this critical domain. The strategies outlined in the report aim to accelerate this progress and ensure the US maintains its edge in space nuclear power and propulsion.