American experts have decided to create prototypes of nuclear engines for spacecraft. Their ultimate goal is to demonstrate orbital flight in 2027.
The contracts were awarded to two companies, Ultra Safe Nuclear and Avalanche Energy. They have to show nuclear engines for small spacecraft that will operate in lunar (Earth-Moon) space. The cost of contracts is not disclosed.
It is noted that the US military is interested in monitoring the lunar space, as government and commercial activities are increasing in this sector. If all goes according to plan, Ultra Safe Nuclear will showcase EmberCore, a rechargeable nuclear battery. But the Avalanche Energy installation will keep electrons closer to atomic nuclei than is usually possible. As a result, energy particles will be formed, which will generate either heat or electricity.