NASA will build a nuclear reactor on the moon, will get ahead of Russia and China

A major concern is that if other space powers like Russia or China set up such a reactor on the moon first, they could claim their rights there, which might increase challenges for the U.S. For this reason, this project is a top priority.

The project is expected to cost billions of dollars. In 2022 alone, NASA gave $50 lakh (about Rs 40 crore) each to three private companies to develop preliminary designs.

Based on the experience of companies like Rolls-Royce, the construction, energy distribution, and operation of the reactor are very costly. This project is also part of the Artemis mission, which is estimated to cost Rs 8,200 billion.

Duffy's memo states that NASA will need to gather proposals from private companies within 60 days and will soon appoint a key official for the project. NASA is seeking companies capable of installing reactors on the Moon by 2030.

This technology could someday enable energy supply on other planets like Mars, potentially revolutionizing space exploration.