The Space Race is heating up as both the United States and China vie for dominance in establishing a permanent lunar presence. NASA’s Artemis program, aimed at returning humans to the Moon and building sustainable infrastructure, faces new challenges after Chinese scientists raised concerns over the safety and efficiency of its Fission Surface Power (FSP) reactor.
The FSP reactor, designed to provide stable power for long-term lunar missions, uses highly enriched uranium as fuel. However, Chinese experts have pointed out potential weaknesses in its design, including the need for a heavy beryllium shield, which increases the reactor’s mass and transport costs. Furthermore, the uranium fuel is prone to swelling under radiation, potentially shortening the reactor’s lifespan.
In response, China has proposed an alternative reactor design inspired by Soviet models. The new design features annular fuel rods filled with uranium dioxide pellets, encased in stainless steel for better protection and heat dissipation. The Chinese reactor also employs a liquid metal cooling system using sodium-potassium alloy to prevent overheating and ensure safe operation.
One of the key improvements in China’s design is its sophisticated control mechanisms. Unlike NASA’s basic control systems, the new design provides advanced management capabilities for critical situations, essential for lunar missions where human crews are far from Earth-based assistance.
China’s alternative reactor design offers a more sustainable and efficient solution to lunar power generation, positioning the country as a serious contender in the Space Race. The development comes as both nations push forward with their ambitious lunar exploration plans, with China aiming to establish a permanent presence on the Moon.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/04/china-has-just-upset-the-moon-race-its-scientists-have-identified-a-design-flaw-in-nasas-reactor