Brief
NASA advances SR‑1 Freedom nuclear power module ahead of 2028 launch
NASA’s Ignition event highlighted new contracts and safety steps for the first fission‑powered spacecraft.
By Felo News Desk · Published
At NASA’s Ignition event on Oct. 20, the agency announced progress on the Space Reactor‑1 (SR‑1) Freedom nuclear power module, a key element of the first fission‑powered spacecraft planned for a late‑2028 launch.
Steve Sinacore, program director, said the new contract actions reduce technical risk and keep the mission on track. Sierra Lobo Inc. will supply a closed Brayton‑cycle power conversion system that turns reactor heat into electricity. The system will be integrated with a fission reactor being designed by the Department of Energy’s Idaho National Laboratory.
NASA and DOE will apply rigorous safety reviews, continuous oversight by a chief safety officer, and regulatory compliance throughout development. The reactor will stay inactive until the spacecraft exits Earth orbit. When launched, SR‑1 Freedom will carry the SkyFall science payload, including three Mars helicopters derived from Ingenuity, to study potential water sources and test deep‑space exploration technologies.
Key facts
- NASA announced progress on the SR‑1 Freedom nuclear power module at the Ignition event on Oct. 20, 2026. (nasa.gov)
- Sierra Lobo Inc. will provide the closed Brayton‑cycle power conversion system for the module. (nasa.gov)
- The fission reactor is being designed by DOE’s Idaho National Laboratory and will remain inactive until the spacecraft leaves Earth orbit. (nasa.gov)
- SR‑1 Freedom is slated for a late‑2028 launch carrying the SkyFall mission with three Mars helicopters. (nasa.gov)
Sources
- [1] nasa.gov — originally reported as “NASA’s SR-1 Freedom Advances with Progress on Nuclear Power Module”
