The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and NASA have announced a renewed partnership to develop a fission surface power system for use on the Moon, with plans to deploy a lunar surface reactor by 2030. This initiative is formalized through a recently signed memorandum of understanding between the two agencies.
According to DOE Secretary Chris Wright, “History shows that when American science and innovation come together, from the Manhattan Project to the Apollo Mission, our nation leads the world to reach new frontiers once thought impossible. This agreement continues that legacy. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and his America First Space Policy, the Department is proud to work with NASA and the commercial space industry on what will be one of the greatest technical achievements in the history of nuclear energy and space exploration.”
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated, “Under President Trump’s national space policy, America is committed to returning to the Moon, building the infrastructure to stay, and making the investments required for the next giant leap to Mars and beyond. Achieving this future requires harnessing nuclear power. This agreement enables closer collaboration between NASA and the Department of Energy to deliver the capabilities necessary to usher in the Golden Age of space exploration and discovery.”
The goal is for DOE and NASA to deploy a fission surface power system capable of providing reliable electrical power for extended periods without refueling. Such technology would allow sustained lunar missions by ensuring continuous energy supply regardless of environmental conditions.
This collaboration builds upon over five decades of joint efforts between DOE and NASA in advancing space exploration technologies and supporting national security.
