The PULSAR project revealed a conceptual design for a Pu-238-fueled power system for lunar missions
Returning to the Moon requires solving the problem of reliable power for lunar missions.
Solar energy is abundant in some locations on the Moon, but it’s not always reliable due to the long lunar nights and extreme temperature changes. This is why engineers are exploring nuclear power as an alternative to continuous energy.
For lunar space missions, researchers have unveiled a conceptual design for a radioisotope power system (RPS) using plutonium-238 (Pu-238).
Pu-238-powered radioisotope power systems are important for spacecraft operating where solar energy isn’t enough.
This development comes under the PULSAR consortium, comprised of leading European organizations, which is led by Tractebel and funded by Euratom.
The PULSAR project achieved its goals by producing a lunar-focused RPS design, and a feasibility study for European Pu-238 production.
These systems generate electricity from the natural decay of isotopes like Plutonium-238, providing a reliable power source for missions operating in the challenging lunar environment.
The RPS uses two Stirling engines to convert the heat generated by the decay of Plutonium-238 (Pu-238) into electricity.
Existing nuclear batteries and generators require significant fuel and are bulky, adding to launch weight. PULSAR aims to improve efficiency and reduce size/weight by using an advanced Stirling engine in its radioisotope power system.
It is intended to provide between 100 and 500 watts of electrical power. This power output is specifically designed to meet the needs of a lunar rover or a cargo carrier operating on the Moon.
The system has been designed with specific safety features to ensure it can be launched safely from the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana.
“The modular design ensures resilience against motor failure, with an expected thermo-electrical conversion efficiency of 20%,” the press release noted.
The challenging conditions on the moon make nuclear power a critical component of lunar missions.
The Moon’s 14-day nights make solar power impractical without huge, complex battery systems. On the other hand, there are regions on the moon, particularly in craters near the poles, that are in perpetual darkness.
These permanently shadowed areas are potentially rich in resources like water ice, which makes them prime exploration targets for future missions. However, solar power will be unusable in such dark locations for exploration.
Nuclear power provides a consistent, reliable, and powerful energy source, independent of sunlight.
Tractebel’s nuclear experts performed extensive engineering studies on the RPS, which explored its structural integrity, radiation safety, thermal behavior, and mechanical design.
“The team developed a 3D mechanical and thermal model to simulate lunar conditions, providing a foundation for future design iterations and higher Technical Readiness Levels (TRL). This work lays the groundwork for Europe’s participation in the upcoming Argonaut lunar lander mission,” the press release noted.
Moreover, the consortium aims to establish European production of Pu-238 and related technologies. Currently, Europe relies on external sources for this vital material. Developing indigenous production capabilities is essential for securing Europe’s future in space exploration.
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