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Framatome and ENEA join forces to develop lunar nuclear reactors

Framatome and Italian agency ENEA have signed an agreement to design nuclear reactors capable of powering future human settlements on the Moon, amid growing European ambitions in space.

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Framatome, the French nuclear energy company, and the Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA) have announced a strategic partnership to develop nuclear technologies designed to power future lunar infrastructure. The memorandum of understanding covers several key areas, including fuel optimisation, the development of materials adapted to extreme space conditions, and the use of additive manufacturing for reactor components.

The goal is to develop industrial solutions capable of delivering power in the highly demanding lunar environment, where temperatures can drop to -130°C and nights last the equivalent of fourteen Earth days. Framatome stated that nuclear power is the most reliable option for ensuring long-term, continuous energy supply, which is essential for the sustainable deployment of equipment and human operations on the Moon’s surface.

A technological partnership with a space-oriented focus

The agreement outlines joint work on fuel research, advanced manufacturing processes, and the mechanical properties of materials exposed to radiation and thermal fluctuations in space. The objective is to advance technical solutions that meet the energy needs of long-duration space missions.

Grégoire Lambert, Vice President of Framatome Space, stated that the project’s success depends on “a convergence of European expertise,” underlining the strategic role of cross-border cooperation in the development of space-based nuclear technologies. This initiative aligns with broader goals to enhance Europe’s technological capabilities in emerging sectors.

Towards industrialisation of the sector

Alessandro Dodaro, Director of ENEA’s Nuclear Department, said the partnership is “a prerequisite step” for positioning Europe in the nascent segment of surface-based nuclear reactors. The Italian agency expects this collaboration to strengthen its technical skills while accelerating the industrial competitiveness of the field.

The project is part of a growing international landscape of nuclear-powered propulsion and space energy initiatives. Several agencies are currently exploring the use of small modular reactors for lunar applications, aiming to deliver autonomous energy infrastructure for future inhabited bases.

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