NASA Fast-Tracks 100-Kilowatt Moon Reactor Deployment

NASA, now led by acting administrator and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, has accelerated its plan to deploy a 100-kilowatt nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030 in support of the Artemis campaign. The reactor will support lunar bases and missions to Mars by providing continuous power during the Moon's two-week nights, when solar energy is unavailable. NASA will seek industry proposals within 60 days and expects to award contracts in six months, marking a shift toward public-private partnerships. Officials warn that if China or Russia deploys a reactor first, they could establish 'keep-out zones' restricting U.S. access to strategic lunar locations. This initiative comes as the International Space Station nears retirement and the U.S. intensifies efforts to maintain leadership amid a new 'space race.' However, concerns persist regarding the project's cost, safety, and potential international disputes over lunar territory.