Although solar energy is abundant in some parts of the Moon, it is not always a reliable resource. In this context, while the work of return to the Moon gained momentum, a critical solution has been developed for the reliable energy source, one of the biggest problems of space missions. Engineers in Europe have designed a mini -nuclear energy system in accordance with the challenging lunar conditions and offered a sustainable power supply for future reconnaissance tools and freight carriers.

There are plenty of solar energy in certain areas on the surface of the moon. However, the nights on the Moon are much longer than the Earth – 14th World Days last. This makes solar energy no longer a reliable resource. In addition, solar panels become dysfunctional in these regions, as many of the craters at the poles of the Moon are constantly shadowed.

Energy problem is approaching the solution on the moon

The Pulsar Consortium, which was directed by Tracttebel as a solution to these challenging conditions and financed by EURATOM, developed a nuclear energy source called Radioisotop Power System (RPS). This system generates electricity with the natural degradation of the isotope of the radioactive plutonium-238 (PU-238) and offers a long-term, uninterrupted energy source.

The system, which was developed within the scope of the Pulsar project, was designed especially for vehicles and freight carriers that will explore on the surface of the moon. The system, which can provide 100 to 500 WATT electrical power, has been optimized to be more efficient and lighter than the existing nuclear batteries and generators. The RPS uses two Stirling engines to convert the heat caused by the Plutonium-238 (PU-238) to electricity.

The Pulsar team carried out extensive engineering activities to ensure that the system is resistant to extreme temperature changes, radiation environment and mechanical challenges of the Moon. As a result of the tests, the thermal-electric transformation efficiency of the system can reach 20 percent.

In addition, important measures were taken in terms of security. The system is designed to be safely launched from the French Guyanası. On the other hand, Europe is currently dependent on the production of plutonium-238. Another goal of the Pulsar Consortium is to ensure strategic independence in space discoveries by establishing Europe’s own PU-238 production infrastructure.

In the future, a significant portion of the discovery works on the Moon will focus on examining water ice and other valuable resources in permanent shaded craters that do not receive sunlight. However, since solar panels cannot be used in these regions, the need for nuclear energy is increasing. This system also aims to contribute to Europe’s upcoming Argonaut Moon landing mission.