Nuclear energy is a primary power option for space exploration, but its success depends on reactors capable of operating autonomously, rather than relying on human operators in space.

To achieve this goal, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has built a non-nuclear testbed that simulates the conditions of a space nuclear reactor. This overcomes the challenges of high testing costs and stringent regulatory requirements in a reactor environment. The testbed employs a "hardware-in-the-loop" system, combining real hardware with computer models to simulate various conditions. This allows NASA and its industry partners to use cost-effective components and open-source software to rapidly develop and validate autonomous control systems and hardware.

ORNL's Brandon Wilson stated: "Our test platform allows engineers to push autonomous control systems to their limits in a safe, repeatable environment. This means we can identify and solve problems on Earth, preventing issues when astronauts must rely on these systems millions of miles away from Earth."

The research is funded by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, with Diane Ezell serving as the Space Nuclear Program Lead.