Rolls-Royce is currently engaging in preliminary discussions with potential customers regarding its innovative micro nuclear reactor. This new technology is aimed not only at providing energy on Earth but also at supporting future space missions.
Jake Thompson, who leads novel nuclear and special projects at Rolls-Royce, mentioned that the company is assessing how this reactor could be utilized in areas such as data centers, mining operations, and remote communities.
Traditionally recognized for its aircraft engines and submarine reactors for the Royal Navy, Rolls-Royce is eager to leverage its extensive knowledge in the nuclear field. With the world’s interest in smaller reactors gaining momentum, the company sees potential applicability for micro reactors both on the ground and in space.
Thompson, a veteran nuclear engineer with 18 years at Rolls-Royce, highlighted the increasing energy demands globally, emphasizing that the world will require all available resources to meet these needs.
Micro nuclear reactors, in contrast to small modular reactors (SMRs) that are popular among tech giants like Google for low-carbon energy generation, utilize distinct technologies and offer a much smaller power output. Their compact designs make them easier to transport.
This initiative is separate from Rolls-Royce’s efforts to create a fleet of small modular reactors, including those planned for the UK.
Three and a half years ago, Rolls-Royce began developing this micro reactor technology, collaborating with the UK Space Agency since 2021 to explore the potential of nuclear power in space exploration.
Thompson explained that the focus is on creating an extremely small reactor that can be launched on a rocket into space. He pointed out that nuclear power could serve as a crucial energy source for space missions, especially in areas like the dark side of the moon, where solar energy would not be viable.
To date, the space agency has invested £9.46 million in the development of a lunar modular nuclear reactor, matched by Rolls-Royce’s funding. The company anticipates having a deployable reactor ready by the early 2030s, with aspirations of securing a contract with NASA as it seeks to establish a human presence on the moon by 2031.
Thompson noted that once governments, along with NASA’s Artemis missions, successfully establish a human outpost on the moon, there will likely be a surge in commercial services, all of which will necessitate reliable power.
Although the concept of using nuclear power in space is not new—dating back to a US experimental reactor in the 1960s—advancements in technology today aim to yield more powerful solutions. Russia and China recently announced plans to collaborate on building a lunar reactor by 2035.
Rolls-Royce is also working with BWX Technologies of the US to investigate various nuclear applications for space, while other companies such as Lockheed Martin and Westinghouse are also competing in this emerging market.
At Rolls-Royce’s Bristol site, a dedicated team of 100 has been developing the reactor’s design and testing various prototype components.
Unlike traditional pressurized water reactors employed in large power plants, this micro reactor will utilize a high-temperature gas-cooled design. It will employ gas as a coolant to achieve higher temperatures, which will then be used to generate electricity via turbines. Recently, the company successfully tested an electrically-heated version of this process.
The reactor will use highly enriched uranium fuel, comprised of tiny uranium spheres with protective layers, making them durable and heat-resistant.
A single reactor core is expected to have a lifespan of about 10 years. While Rolls-Royce may be able to refuel the reactor on Earth, this may not be possible in space; the company plans to work with the UK government to ensure safe storage and disposal.
The terrestrial model will produce between 5MW and 20MW and is designed to be deployable in shipping containers, making it suitable for remote work sites or military bases where reliable energy sources are scarce.
This space reactor, comparable in size to a family car, is required by NASA to weigh no more than 6,000kg and could generate hundreds of kilowatts.
Safety is a priority; the reactor will only activate once it reaches the lunar surface, ensuring that nuclear fuel is inert during its journey.
Experts recognize the ambitious design goals; however, some question the practical applications of these new nuclear technologies. Analyst Nick Cunningham highlights that while submarines and spacecraft could greatly benefit from nuclear solutions, the commercial use of micro reactors remains uncertain.
In summary, Rolls-Royce is making significant strides in micro nuclear reactor technology, eyeing both terrestrial and space applications, as governments and organizations explore the future of energy for critical operations.