Nuclear power for electricity on the moon.. a huge plan by leading countries!

The superpowers are preparing to establish permanent bases on the moon. As part of this, the United States, China, and Russia are now focusing on setting up nuclear reactors on the moon. Electricity is key to living on the moon for a long time in the future and exploring its resources. That is why these three countries are looking at nuclear power as an alternative.

'The New York Times' revealed that NASA in August asked for proposals from companies to manufacture a small nuclear reactor. It will be designed to operate near the moon's south pole. The goal is to be ready for launch by December 2030. This reactor is expected to generate 20 kilowatts of electricity and operate for five years without human intervention.

China is also moving forward with plans to use nuclear power on the moon. It is reported that Russia is developing a reactor named 'Selina' together with China. Russia aims to have it ready by 2036. It will provide up to 10 kilowatts of electricity and be designed to operate on its own for ten years.

Because.. the night on the moon is long!
A night on the moon lasts more than two weeks. This makes it difficult to rely entirely on solar power. In the initial stage, the US and China want to use solar power and radioisotope systems. However, if large bases are established, more electricity will be required. That is where nuclear reactors will become crucial.

The real challenge is safety..
Setting up a nuclear reactor on the moon is not that easy. If the rocket launch fails, there is a possibility of a danger to nuclear materials. Securing and maintaining a reactor on the moon is also difficult. Experts say that some areas around the reactor may have to be restricted for the safety of astronauts and equipment. The US and Russia, however, want to take the reactors out of service during the launch.

Who has the right to the moon?
This competition has also brought to the fore another key question. According to the Outer Space Treaty signed in 1967, no country should claim the moon as its territory. But can other countries' entry around the bases be restricted in the future? Questions are being raised about who will have the rights to the resources extracted from the moon. The current deadlines of the three countries are also likely to change due to technical and security challenges.