- The UK Space Agency has announced a GBP13 million second phase investment through its International Bilateral Fund (IBF), targeting advancements in space nuclear power technologies, with key recipients including Rolls-Royce Submarines and BWXT Advanced Technologies LLC.
- Collaborative projects involving Rolls-Royce, the University of Leicester, and international partners aim to develop flexible fission nuclear systems, identify mission opportunities for UK space nuclear power technologies, and integrate hybrid power systems for sustainable space exploration.
- These strategic investments and partnerships align with the UK’s commitment to strengthening its position in the global space sector, fostering technological innovation, and supporting long-duration space missions, while also enhancing international cooperation in space nuclear power and propulsion.
The UK Space Agency has unveiled a second phase of investment, amounting to GBP13 million, as part of its GBP20 million International Bilateral Fund (IBF). The announcement was made at the 39th Space Symposium held in Colorado Springs, USA. This new funding initiative builds upon the initial phase launched last year and is specifically targeted at advancing space nuclear power technologies.
Rolls-Royce Submarines and BWXT Advanced Technologies LLC are among the key recipients of this funding. They have been awarded support for a joint project aimed at “identifying the optimum technologies for a fission nuclear system.” The primary objective of this collaboration is to develop a nuclear system that offers flexibility across various space power missions, ensures maximum performance, and minimizes technical risks.
In another significant development, the University of Leicester has joined forces with partners from the UK, USA, and Japan. Together, they will focus on identifying mission opportunities for UK space nuclear power technologies. Additionally, the collaboration will involve the development of hybrid power systems by integrating existing US technologies.
The importance of nuclear power in space exploration cannot be overstated. Nuclear energy has the potential to significantly extend the duration and scientific value of space missions. Rolls-Royce has emphasized that space micro-reactors could provide sustainable and resilient power solutions, meeting the demanding requirements of space missions effectively.
This recent funding announcement follows previous investments made by the UK Space Agency in Rolls-Royce. In 2023, Rolls-Royce received GBP2.9 million under the Lunar Surface Nuclear Power Contract and Phase 1 of the IBF. This initial support led to a demonstration of a UK lunar modular nuclear reactor. Furthermore, Rolls-Royce showcased its Space Micro-Reactor Concept Model last December, illustrating the potential of nuclear power to support future Moon bases and other space exploration endeavors.
The new funding initiative is part of a broader collaboration between Rolls-Royce and BWXT Advanced Technologies LLC. This strategic partnership aims to facilitate the development of innovative nuclear applications across terrestrial, space, and commercial maritime domains. Both companies believe that this collaboration will benefit the space nuclear development programs of both the UK and the US. Importantly, this partnership aligns with the commitments made in the Atlantic Declaration by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and US President Joe Biden last year, where both nations pledged to explore “opportunities for co-operation on space nuclear power and propulsion.”
Anu Ojha, director of Championing Space at the UK Space Agency, has expressed optimism about these advancements. He believes that innovative technologies like these could establish the UK as a prominent spacefaring nation. Ojha also highlighted the potential of these technologies to enable continuous human presence on the Moon, stimulate growth in the UK space sector, create employment opportunities, and attract further investment.
In conclusion, the UK Space Agency’s latest funding initiative underscores its dedication to advancing space nuclear power technologies through international collaborations and partnerships. These investments are designed to strengthen the UK’s position in the global space sector, foster technological innovation, and support long-duration space missions.
