What's Happening?
Zeno Power has finalized a multimillion-dollar deal with Orano, a French nuclear recycler, to ensure a consistent supply of americium-241 for its space nuclear batteries. This agreement addresses the shortage of plutonium-238, which is vital for NASA's deep space missions. Americium-241, with a half-life exceeding 430 years, is ideal for long-duration space missions, providing a dependable power source for lunar rovers, landers, and infrastructure. The deal represents the first large-scale commercial production of americium, allowing Zeno Power to scale its systems to meet increasing demand.
Why It's Important?
The acquisition of americium-241 is pivotal for Zeno Power's development of radioisotope power systems, which are crucial for sustaining lunar missions during the cold lunar night. By utilizing americium-241, Zeno Power can conserve limited plutonium-238 supplies for NASA's flagship missions to deep space. This advancement supports the expansion of nuclear-powered systems for space applications, enhancing the capabilities of lunar and Mars missions. The agreement also fortifies the supply chain for space nuclear batteries, ensuring long-term power solutions for future missions.
What's Next?
Zeno Power intends to deploy an americium-fueled radioisotope power system by the end of the decade, utilizing the fuel from Orano to rapidly scale its systems. The company is collaborating with regulatory agencies to establish pathways for commercial missions, with approvals anticipated within 12-24 months from launch vehicle selection. Zeno Power is also developing strontium-fueled batteries for shorter, maritime-focused missions under a Department of Defense contract, further broadening its nuclear-powered applications.
