U.S. to Fast-Track Nuclear Reactor on the Moon, Says Transportation Secretary

In a surprise move, Transportation Secretary and interim NASA chief Sean Duffy is expected to announce an accelerated timeline to build a nuclear reactor on the moon, according to documents obtained by POLITICO.

“This is about winning the second space race,” said a senior NASA official familiar with the plan.

NASA has long discussed lunar nuclear power, but this directive sets a more aggressive path — targeting launch by 2030 for a 100-kilowatt reactor, which would be crucial for long-term moon missions. A previous NASA project envisioned a smaller, 40-kilowatt reactor.

The directive comes amid growing competition from China and Russia, who have launched a joint lunar project. U.S. officials warn that whichever country establishes a reactor first could “declare a keep-out zone,” limiting access for others.

The plan reflects the Trump administration’s focus on crewed spaceflight, even as it proposes a nearly 50% cut to science missions. The White House budget would boost funding for human space exploration in 2026, and also calls for faster replacement of the International Space Station.

Duffy, who took over as interim NASA administrator in July after Trump withdrew his previous nominee, Jared Isaacman, is now playing a central role in space policy — despite skepticism from lawmakers about his dual role.