The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and NASA have announced a renewed partnership to develop a fission surface power system intended for use on the Moon, with the goal of deploying a lunar surface reactor by 2030. This initiative is formalized through a newly signed memorandum of understanding between the two agencies.
The collaboration aims to support both lunar and future Mars missions by providing a reliable source of electrical power that can operate independently of sunlight or temperature changes. The effort is part of broader plans to ensure American leadership in space exploration and commerce.
“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 added: “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.”
The DOE-NASA joint project will focus on developing a fission surface power system capable of supplying continuous electrical power for extended periods without refueling. According to agency statements, this technology is expected to enable sustained lunar operations for future missions.
This latest initiative builds on more than five decades of cooperation between DOE and NASA in areas such as technology development, space exploration, and national security.
