Rolls-Royce, a renowned British engineering firm, has announced plans to construct a nuclear reactor to be placed on the moon. This lunar-based reactor will be used to power a human base on the moon and is a major milestone in the space exploration industry.
The reactor, known as a fission reactor, will be of a compact design, measuring roughly 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing around 3,000 kilograms. It will be able to generate up to 10 kilowatts of electricity, enough to power around 10 homes.
The reactor will be powered by highly enriched uranium-235, which has a longer shelf-life than many other radioactive elements. The reactor will also utilize a new form of heat pipe technology, which will ensure efficient heat dissipation and reduce the risk of explosion.
The reactor will be designed for a mission of up to 10 years, making it suitable for long-term human habitation on the moon. It will also be designed to endure the rigours of space travel, including the extreme temperatures, radiation, and gravitational forces.
Rolls-Royce will be developing the reactor in collaboration with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority. The reactor is set to be delivered and installed on the moon in 2025, with the first humans expected to arrive and begin habitation shortly afterwards.
This ambitious project marks a major milestone in space exploration and will be an integral part of humanity’s journey to colonize the moon. It also stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of Rolls-Royce and the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and will undoubtedly pave the way for further technological advancements.