NASA plans nuclear powered missions and Moon base expansion by 2028

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration has outlined new initiatives to align with United States National Space Policy, including plans to deploy nuclear power and propulsion systems in space by 2028.

In a statement issued on March 24, 2026, the agency said it aims to move nuclear technology from research stages into operational missions to strengthen its position in deep space exploration.

As part of this shift, Nasa plans to launch its first nuclear-powered interplanetary spacecraft, named Space Reactor-1 Freedom to Mars, before 2028 to support missions beyond Jupiter.

The spacecraft is expected to enable high-power exploration capabilities and support long-duration missions, while also establishing regulatory and technical precedents for future nuclear systems in space.

Nasa also plans to deploy Ingenuity-class helicopters on Mars using the new platform, expanding aerial exploration capabilities on the planet.

The agency said the programme will help develop nuclear hardware for propulsion, surface power systems, and extended missions, while also supporting industrial capacity in these areas.

To support implementation, Nasa plans to recruit specialised experts and integrate them into its operational framework to meet targets outlined in national policy.

The announcement follows a shift in lunar strategy, with the agency moving away from the Lunar Gateway concept and instead planning a $20 billion base on the Moon’s surface.