Overview

• NASA issued a Request for Information on August 14 to gather industry feedback on a fission surface power system for the Moon, with responses due by August 21.
• Performance targets include at least 100 kWe electrical output, a total mass under 15 metric tons, with adoption of a closed Brayton cycle conversion system.
• The RFI is intended to gather technical insights rather than secure bids; responses may inform a formal solicitation later this year.
• NASA’s initiative follows calls to secure U.S. leadership over Russo-Chinese mid-2030s lunar reactor proposals, aligning with Artemis program goals.
• It builds on decades of agency nuclear experience, including three fission concept contracts awarded in 2022 and past use of radioisotope power systems.