Nuclear Power Emerges as Critical Factor in New Lunar Space Race
The ability to survive the brutal lunar night is emerging as the defining challenge in the new space race. While Chinese landers using nuclear batteries have operated for years, recent U.S. missions have failed within weeks due to power limitations.
The Lunar Night Challenge
The next phase of space competition will be determined by which nations can conquer one of the moon’s most formidable obstacles: the 14-Earth-day-long lunar night. According to space industry reports, when the sun disappears from view, temperatures plummet to nearly minus 300 degrees Fahrenheit, solar panels cease generating electricity, batteries drain rapidly, and critical electronics freeze beyond recovery.
