The United States is accelerating its push into space with plans to deploy nuclear reactors on the Moon and in orbit within the next decade. Led by NASA in coordination with the Departments of Defense and Energy, the initiative aims to establish a sustainable energy infrastructure for future lunar missions. According to the roadmap, a medium-power reactor could be placed in orbit by 2028, with a larger, fully operational reactor on the Moon targeted for deployment by 2030.
The move reflects a shift away from reliance on solar power, which has limitations due to intermittency and storage requirements. Nuclear reactors, by contrast, provide continuous, long-term energy through fission, making them ideal for supporting lunar bases, powering spacecraft, and enabling extended missions. The technology could also be used for nuclear electric propulsion, allowing spacecraft to travel farther and carry heavier payloads without the constraints of traditional fuel systems.
Officials say the development of space-based nuclear power is essential for maintaining U.S. leadership in space, particularly as global competition intensifies. The plan includes scalable reactor designs capable of supporting both habitation and propulsion, as well as ensuring the infrastructure and fuel supply needed for long-term operations. As nations race to establish a presence beyond Earth, the deployment of nuclear energy in space marks a significant step toward sustained exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.