NASA's Space Reactor-1 (SR-1) Freedom is a historic mission that will be the first to demonstrate nuclear electric propulsion in deep space. The spacecraft is designed to travel to Mars and beyond, carrying a science payload called SkyFall. To achieve this, the nuclear power module is a crucial component, responsible for generating heat through nuclear fission and converting it into electricity to power systems and electric propulsion.
Sierra Lobo Inc. has been contracted to provide the nuclear power module's closed Brayton cycle power conversion system. This system will convert thermal energy from the fission reactor into electrical power needed for the spacecraft's nuclear electric propulsion demonstration. The work will be conducted under the Space Flight Systems Development and Operations Contract III, awarded in 2024, at NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
The SR-1 Freedom program director, Steve Sinacore, emphasized the importance of these contract actions, stating that they reduce technical risk, maintain momentum toward the 2028 launch, and strengthen collaboration across partners. The mission's progress is a significant step towards developing technology for a vibrant space nuclear future.
The SR-1 Freedom mission is a testament to NASA's commitment to innovation and exploration. By pushing the boundaries of nuclear power and propulsion, the agency is paving the way for future space missions and expanding our understanding of the universe.