Placing an atomic energy source on the lunar surface is “not science fiction,” experts say, but does pose technical challenges.

The group also partnered with defense giant Lockheed Martin to win a NASA contract worth $5 million in 2022 to designed the first iterations of the lunar power systems. Westinghouse and Aerojet Rocketdyne, as well as a joint venture that included Boeing, were also selected.

Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy has directed the agency to fast-track plans to put a nuclear reactor on the moon.