NASA’s Space Reactor-1 (SR-1) Freedom, the first fission-powered craft to leave Earth orbit, is advancing with a contract for its nuclear power module. The mission aims to demonstrate nuclear electric propulsion on a voyage to Mars, launching in 2028.
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01Summary
- 01SR-1 Freedom will be the first spacecraft to use fission power beyond Earth orbit, carrying the SkyFall science payload to Mars.
- 02Sierra Lobo Inc. will build the closed Brayton cycle power conversion system under a 2024 contract at NASA’s Glenn Research Center.
- 03The fission reactor is being designed by the Department of Energy’s Idaho National Laboratory, with safety reviews and a chief safety officer overseeing development.
- 04The reactor will remain inactive until the spacecraft leaves Earth orbit, and the mission is set for a late 2028 launch.
- 05SkyFall comprises three Mars helicopters inspired by Ingenuity to collect data, explore zones, and identify water sources.
02Why it matters
This mission could enable deep-space exploration and power NASA’s Moon Base during lunar nights where solar is insufficient, advancing human presence beyond Earth.
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