UK boosts lunar mission with Rolls-Royce nuclear tech funding
Rolls-Royce announced that it has received financial support from the UK Space Agency, which will accelerate research on using nuclear energy to create a future base for astronauts on the Moon.
A team of Rolls-Royce scientists and engineers is developing a space microreactor program. The goal is to develop technology that could provide the energy necessary for human life and work on the Moon's surface, Rolls-Royce stated.
The company argues that every space mission requires a reliable power source to support communication systems, life support, and the conducting of scientific research.
Nuclear solutions could significantly extend the duration and increase the scientific value of future lunar missions.
The UK Space Agency has allocated £2.9 million ($3.6 million) for the new phase of the project, marking the UK's first nuclear reactor project with potential use on the Moon.
This funding continues previous programs worth £249,000 ($308,000) that the UK Space Agency funded in 2022.
