NASA announced progress on the nuclear power module for the Space Reactor-1 (SR-1) Freedom spacecraft, humanity's first fission-powered mission beyond Earth's orbit. Slated to launch in late 2028, the mission will head toward Mars.
Nuclear Power Module Development
NASA and its partners have agreed to key contract actions to expedite the development of the Space Reactor-1 (SR-1) Freedom spacecraft's nuclear power module. Sierra Lobo Inc. will provide the closed Brayton cycle power conversion system to convert thermal energy from the fission reactor into electrical power.
The fission reactor itself is being designed and developed by the Department of Energy’s Idaho National Laboratory. According to NASA, the nuclear reactor portion of the spacecraft will remain inactive until the vehicle leaves Earth orbit.
Mission Goals and Safety Measures
Launching in late 2028, SR-1 Freedom will deliver the SkyFall science mission, which features a team of three Mars helicopters evolved from the Ingenuity design. The mission aims to collect scientific data, demonstrate exploration zones, and identify potential water sources.
NASA stated that thorough safety standards are incorporated throughout the design and development process. These measures include interagency safety reviews, continuous oversight by a NASA chief safety officer, regulatory compliance, and a safety design process focusing on hazards and failure tolerance.
Key facts and where they come from
- Space Reactor-1 Freedom is designed to be the first spacecraft to demonstrate fission power beyond Earth's orbit.
Space Reactor-1 Freedom will be the first spacecraft ever to demonstrate fission power beyond Earth’s orbit
- Sierra Lobo Inc. will provide the closed Brayton cycle power conversion system for the nuclear power module.
Sierra Lobo Inc. will provide the nuclear power module’s closed Brayton cycle power conversion system
- The Department of Energy's Idaho National Laboratory is designing and developing the fission reactor.
the fission reactor, which is being designed and developed by the Department of Energy (DOE)’s Idaho National Laboratory
- The SR-1 Freedom mission is scheduled to launch in late 2028 to deliver the SkyFall science mission.
Launching in late 2028, SR‑1 Freedom will deliver the SkyFall science mission
