ScienceBusiness StandardNew space race: Superpowers look to set up N-reactors on the Moon
The US, China and Russia are all racing to put nuclear reactors on the Moon to power lunar bases, but scientists are warning the rush could be dangerous.
The US, China and Russia are racing to deploy nuclear reactors on the Moon, seeking reliable power for lunar bases while scientists warn of safety risks
NASA, China and Russia are all developing nuclear reactors intended to power permanent bases near the Moon's south pole.
NASA wants its reactor launch-ready by December 2030, while Russia and China are targeting 2036 under a secretive joint partnership backed by Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin.
Scientists warn that rushing nuclear technology into space risks radioactive debris on Earth or turning lunar regions into no-go zones if something goes wrong.
NASA wants a lunar nuclear reactor ready to launch by December 2030, with Russia and China aiming for theirs by 2036, so this is closer than it sounds.
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