Deep space missions require thermal and electric power to support both in-space and surface functions. To support these functions, most deep-space or planetary science missions have used a combination of solar power, fuel cells, and radioisotope power systems (RPS). Future missions may involve more complex or long-term activities such as mining or in situ resource utilization on the moon, or a human journey to the moon or Mars, and will require larger and more reliable sources of power than currently exist. In this paper, we present findings related to the status of and challenges facing the U.S. space nuclear power enterprise, as well as observations on how to ensure the availability of adequate nuclear power capabilities for emerging missions in the next 10-25 years.
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