In an important step toward establishing permanent lunar presence, Italy’s space agency Agenzia Spaziale Italiana) has launched an initiative, the SELENE project, developing nuclear fission technology to power future Moon settlements.
The lunar environment, characterized by its 14-day light-dark cycles, means there are limitations in conventional solar-based power solutions. SELENE (Sistema Energetico Lunare con l’Energia Nucleare) addresses this challenge through its innovative Moon Energy Hub (MEnH), an integrated power infrastructure centered on advanced Surface Nuclear Reactors (SNRs).
“The demanding energy requirements for future lunar activities necessitate solutions that transcend traditional solar technology,” notes Angelo Olivieri, ASI’s head of Scientific Missions. This perspective reflects Italy’s commitment to enabling sustained lunar presence through advanced energy solutions.
The project combines Italy’s technical expertise, uniting ENEA‘s nuclear engineering capabilities, the Politecnico di Milano‘s energy systems research, and Thales Alenia Space Italia’s space technology experience. This collaboration ensures a comprehensive approach to the complex challenges of lunar power generation.
SELENE’s design focuses on adaptability. The MEnH framework incorporates sophisticated energy storage systems designed for dynamic power management, enhanced by advanced transmission solutions. A steerable energy distribution network enables remote operations support, while mobile reception systems facilitate diverse mission profiles, creating a flexible infrastructure for evolving lunar activities.
A crucial aspect of SELENE’s mission extends beyond technical development to address the regulatory landscape for space nuclear applications. The project aims to establish a comprehensive safety and regulatory framework. Drawing from IAEA’s international guidelines and decades of operational experience, SELENE will develop structured recommendations for governing space nuclear systems, integrating established terrestrial protocols while adapting them to the unique challenges of space applications. This framework will serve as an essential enabler for future lunar nuclear power systems, ensuring their safe and reliable deployment in the demanding lunar environment.
As international lunar initiatives advance, SELENE positions Italy as a contributor to space nuclear technology development, providing important expertise for sustained lunar operations. The project demonstrates how Earth to Space technology transfer can address the challenges of establishing permanent human presence beyond Earth.
Italy’s SELENE Project Charts Path for Sustainable Lunar Nuclear Power
