US to build nuclear reactor on the moon

Sean Duffy, interim NASA administrator, will announce a 100-kilowatt lunar nuclear reactor by 2030, per NASA documents. This sustains NASA’s nuclear development after the Pentagon canceled a joint nuclear rocket engine program. “The first country to have a reactor could declare a keep-out zone which would significantly inhibit the United States,” the directive states, targeting China-Russia’s lunar plans.

Appointed by Trump in July after withdrawing Jared Isaacman’s nomination amid tensions with Elon Musk, Duffy aims to outpace China’s planned 2030 lunar landing. NASA must solicit industry proposals within 60 days, targeting companies capable of meeting the timeline. Previously, NASA explored a 40-kilowatt reactor, but the new directive prioritizes higher capacity to support lunar operations.

Duffy also accelerates plans to replace the aging International Space Station with commercial stations by 2030, with contracts to be awarded within six months. This aligns with Trump’s budget, which boosts crewed spaceflight funding while slashing science missions by nearly 50 percent. “It is about winning the second space race,” a NASA official said, emphasizing U.S. efforts to counter China’s advancing space capabilities.

The reactor initiative ensures NASA’s role in nuclear development, filling a gap left by the Pentagon’s withdrawal. Companies like Axiom Space, Vast, and Blue Origin are positioned to compete for station contracts, though lawmakers warn NASA’s pace may lag. Duffy’s dual role raises concerns, yet his directives signal aggressive U.S. space policy.