The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and NASA have announced a renewed partnership aimed at developing a fission surface power system for use on the Moon, with plans to deploy a lunar surface reactor by 2030. This collaboration is formalized through a recently signed memorandum of understanding between the two agencies.
The initiative supports President Trump’s policy goals regarding American leadership in space exploration and commerce, specifically calling for the deployment of nuclear reactors both on the Moon and in orbit. The project aims to provide continuous, reliable power for future missions, including sustained lunar presence and eventual Mars expeditions.
“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,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “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.”
According to DOE and NASA officials, they plan for a fission surface power system that can generate electrical power safely over long periods without refueling. Such technology would allow lunar missions greater flexibility by ensuring constant energy supply regardless of environmental conditions like sunlight or temperature.
This joint effort extends more than five decades of cooperation between DOE and NASA in areas such as technology development, support for space exploration initiatives, and enhancing national security.
