Placing an atomic energy source on the lunar surface is “not science fiction,” experts say, but does pose technical challenges.

Signed by the current Acting Administrator Sean Duffy, NASA Headquarters released a plan that calls for creating a new position, the Fission Surface Power Program Executive, who would oversee this effort, working to award contracts within the next eight months to up to two industry providers to push forward this effort.

NASA has been asked to move fast and place a nuclear reactor on the moon before other countries get there first. New Directive to Launch Nuclear Reactor on the Moon The acting head of the space agency has ordered NASA to prepare for this mission by the end of 2029.