In the US, successfully tested a nuclear reactor for the lunar base
The prospect of developing the solar system and the planets closest to us is fraught with a number of difficulties, one of which is the search for an energy source for interplanetary flights.
Now most spacecraft operate on solar panels, but this is extremely insufficient for expeditions to the moon and especially Mars and beyond. One of the promising and realistic options is nuclear energy, and this week NASA announced the successful testing of a nuclear reactor for the lunar mission.
The development of the reactor project started at the end of 2017, received the name Kilopower, whose goal is to create reliable nuclear facilities. The fuel for the KRUSTY reactor system (Kilopower Reactor Using Stirling Technology) is enriched uranium-235, and its power varies in various versions, and can reach 10 kilowatts.
The setup consists of a cylindrical hollow fuel rod with a moderator rod inside, and a neutron reflector from beryllium oxide is located outside.
Scientists conducted several tests, the purpose of which was to verify the nuclear installation for reliability and reliability, regardless of external conditions. The models of malfunctions were simulated - from engine shutdown to the destruction of heat pipes, however KRUSTY showed an extremely high degree of stability.
Now most spacecraft operate on solar panels, but this is extremely insufficient for expeditions to the moon and especially Mars and beyond. One of the promising and realistic options is nuclear energy, and this week NASA announced the successful testing of a nuclear reactor for the lunar mission.
The development of the reactor project started at the end of 2017, received the name Kilopower, whose goal is to create reliable nuclear facilities. The fuel for the KRUSTY reactor system (Kilopower Reactor Using Stirling Technology) is enriched uranium-235, and its power varies in various versions, and can reach 10 kilowatts.
The setup consists of a cylindrical hollow fuel rod with a moderator rod inside, and a neutron reflector from beryllium oxide is located outside.
Scientists conducted several tests, the purpose of which was to verify the nuclear installation for reliability and reliability, regardless of external conditions. The models of malfunctions were simulated - from engine shutdown to the destruction of heat pipes, however KRUSTY showed an extremely high degree of stability.
- http://www.nanonewsnet.ru
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