Rolls-Royce announced this week that they have been awarded $6-million by the UK’s National Space Innovation Program (NSIP) to further develop their micro nuclear space reactor. Put simply, the Micro-Reactor can generate between 1-10 MW and is compact enough to be transported on the back of a truck, making it ideal for Moon bases, rovers, etc.
What sets the Micro-Reactor (MR) apart from the Small Modular Reactor (SMR) is that the former can be fueled by pellets made of layers of enriched uranium / plutonium, carbon, and ceramic. These materials are set in tubes in a geometrical graphite core that helps regulate the nuclear reaction, conduct heat from the fuel, and act as a passive safety control. Custom-built heat exchangers not only keep the reactor light, but also move the heat to where it can be turned into useful power.
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We are delighted to win this award from the National Space Innovation Program and to be continuing our collaboration with the UK Space Agency. This funding is a pivotal point in our Micro-Reactor program and will accelerate our technology progression, bringing us a step closer to powering inspiring human endeavors in space,” said Jake Thompson, Director of Novel Nuclear & Special Projects, Rolls-Royce.
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