The United States has emphasized the importance of safety in the use of nuclear power sources in space applications while participating in discussions at the 62nd session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in Vienna, Austria. U.S. Representative Ryan Guglietta urged Member States and international organizations to follow the joint Safety Framework developed in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2009.
The safety of space nuclear power sources was a key focus, with the United States leveraging its extensive experience in over 30 missions to provide insights into the Framework’s implementation. Guglietta highlighted the importance of safe and small modular nuclear reactors for space exploration, referencing an executive order issued by President Trump in 2021 promoting these reactors for national defense and space exploration.
Since 1961, nuclear power has significantly advanced space exploration, enabling the observation of remote planetary bodies. A key example is NASA’s Mars 2020 Perseverance rover, powered by radioisotope energy, which has been searching for signs of ancient life and collecting samples on Mars. The mission also saw the operation of "Ingenuity," the first extraterrestrial rotorcraft.
Looking forward, the Dragonfly mission scheduled for 2028 will deploy a nuclear-powered drone to Titan, utilizing rotors for extended flight. Moreover, the United States and the European Space Agency have formalized their collaboration on the upcoming Rosalind Franklin Mars rover mission, facilitated through nuclear power.
The United States expressed support for nuclear propulsion technologies for missions to Mars and beyond, emphasizing the need for high-energy solutions for deep space excursions. NASA’s investments in nuclear technology, with contributions from the Department of Energy, are focused on enhancing the power available for surface operations and propulsion, aiming for reliability without the necessity for repairs or refueling.
Reiterating commitment to established principles and frameworks, Guglietta pointed out the benefits of the Safety Framework, enabling innovation and improving safety standards. The United States is advocating for further sharing of technical information related to nuclear power systems (NPS) in outer space, encouraging participation from more member states and organizations, particularly the IAEA.
The United States acknowledged Austria's leadership of the NPS Working Group and expressed gratitude to the Secretariat for its support in these endeavors. The continuation of informative exchanges is seen as crucial in promoting understanding and safe practices in nuclear-powered space exploration.