What's Happening?
Zeno Power has signed a multimillion-dollar agreement with Orano, a French nuclear recycler, to secure a steady supply of americium-241 for its space nuclear batteries. This deal addresses the scarcity of plutonium-238, which is commonly used in NASA's deep space missions. Americium-241, with a half-life of over 430 years, is suitable for long-duration space missions, providing a reliable power source for lunar rovers, landers, and infrastructure. The agreement marks the first large-scale commercial production of americium, enabling Zeno Power to scale its systems to meet growing demand.
Why It's Important?
The acquisition of americium-241 is crucial for Zeno Power's development of radioisotope power systems, which are essential for sustaining lunar missions during the frigid lunar night. By utilizing americium-241, Zeno Power can conserve scarce plutonium-238 supplies for NASA's flagship missions to deep space. This development supports the expansion of nuclear-powered systems for space applications, enhancing the capabilities of lunar and Mars missions. The deal also strengthens the supply chain for space nuclear batteries, ensuring long-term power solutions for future missions.
What's Next?
Zeno Power plans to fly an americium-fueled radioisotope power system by the end of the decade, leveraging the fuel from Orano to quickly scale its systems. The company is working with regulatory agencies to establish pathways for commercial missions, with approvals expected 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 expanding its nuclear-powered applications.
