Development of space nuclear reactors for lunar purposes: Overview of technical and non-technical issues

Space nuclear reactor systems are to be considered enabling technologies for the establishing of settlements on the Moon and on Mars. Their compactness, high power density, high reliability, long life and lower recurring cost are advantages compared to other energy sources. In addition, space nuclear reactors are capable of operating independent of the Sun, have an enhanced ability to operate in hostile environments and greatly simplify spacecraft attitude and control functions for most missions. On the other hand, space nuclear power systems do require additional mass for shielding radiation-sensitive payloads, and measures to be taken to protect human beings from output nuclear radiations. This paper provides a succinct partial overview of several technical and non-technical issues related to the past and present development of space nuclear power systems, especially applied to lunar exploration. The technical issues explored here are nuclear propulsion, nuclear reactor and power conversion systems and in-situ lunar power generation nuclear reactors. Non-technical matters approached are the public perception of space nuclear power, space policy, budget measures and the reducing space power workforce.