Over the next fifteen years,(Current year 2022) multiple space agencies and their commercial partners intend to mount crewed missions to the Moon and Mars. In addition to placing “footprints and flags” on these celestial bodies, there are plans to establish the infrastructure to allow for a long-term human presence. To meet these mission requirements and ensure astronaut safety, several technologies are currently being researched and developed.
Artist’s impression of the Kilopower fission reactor on the Moon. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech
Artist’s concept of a fission surface power system on Mars. Credit: NASA
An artist’s conception shows a Mars transit habitat with a nuclear propulsion system. Credit: NASA