NASA has set a 2030 deadline to build a 100-kilowatt nuclear reactor on the moon. It’s an ambitious but potentially achievable goal that could transform space exploration, experts tell WIRED.

Placing an atomic energy source on the lunar surface is “not science fiction,” experts say, but does pose technical challenges.

NASA is ready to send nuclear reactors to the Moon. The goal is to have a working reactor by 2030. NASA boss Sean Duffy said the U.S. is racing China to the Moon. Planting reactors is smarter than just planting flags.