100kW Closed Brayton Cycle Power Conversion System
Problem statement
Space exploration requires robust and scalable power systems, yet existing solutions such as solar arrays and batteries cannot reliably meet the energy demands of sustained operations on the Moon or Mars, where long nights, dust, and harsh conditions limit performance. To address this gap, NASA’s Fission Surface Power project has prioritized the development of nuclear power systems for surface and orbital applications. A closed Brayton cycle is particularly promising due to its efficiency, scalability to high power levels, and compatibility with nuclear heat sources. In partnership with Sandia National Laboratories, our team will design a 100 kW closed-loop Brayton cycle using nuclear fission as the primary heat source. Developing this system is essential not only to ensure reliable energy for habitats, communications, and propulsion but also to enable the long-term human presence in space. Without such advancements, future exploration missions risk being constrained by power limitations.
Team members
Aubrey Olson – facilitator
David Hall – admin
Noah Kleitsch – accountant
Rafe Smith – communicator
Client
Rodney Keith
Sandia National Laboratories