Rolls-Royce has been awarded a $1 million contract by NASA's Glenn Research Center to develop an Advanced Closed Brayton Cycle converter for next-generation space-based nuclear microreactors. Over the course of the 12-month contract, Rolls-Royce LibertyWorks will provide a preliminary design of a closed-cycle Brayton power conversion system. The power conversion system will be used to convert heat generated by the nuclear microreactors into electricity, enabling the microreactors to power space missions. This contract is part of NASA's efforts to explore the use of nuclear power for space exploration, as it offers a compact and efficient source of energy for long-duration missions and operations in permanent shadow areas. The development of a reliable power conversion system is crucial for the successful deployment of nuclear microreactors in space.
In addition to this contract, Rolls-Royce is also involved in the US Department of Defense nuclear microreactor program, Project PELE, and is collaborating with the UK Space Agency on the development of concept designs for space reactor systems. The company's expertise in delivering clean, safe, and competitive solutions for nuclear power systems makes it a valuable partner in these initiatives. The funding for the NASA contract comes from Phase 2 of the UK Space Agency's International Bilateral Fund, which aims to foster collaboration between the UK and international partners in space research and development.
Rolls-Royce will be working with US firm BWXT Advanced Technologies on the development of fission nuclear systems for space power missions. BWXT Advanced Technologies has extensive experience in the design and manufacture of nuclear components and systems, making it a suitable partner for this project. The collaboration between Rolls-Royce and BWXT Advanced Technologies will leverage their respective expertise to develop a power conversion system that meets the unique requirements of space-based nuclear microreactors. By combining their knowledge and capabilities, the two companies aim to advance the development of nuclear power systems for space exploration.
The development of a power conversion system for nuclear microreactors is a significant step forward in the exploration and utilization of nuclear power in space. With the increasing interest in long-duration space missions and the need for reliable power sources in challenging environments, nuclear microreactors have the potential to revolutionize space exploration. Rolls-Royce's contract with NASA's Glenn Research Center is a testament to the company's expertise and capabilities in this field, and it positions them as a key player in the development of nuclear power systems for space missions.
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