Space exploration is exciting, inspiring and opens doors to scientific discoveries. Rolls-Royce in Derby has signed an innovative contract with the UK Space Agency for a study into the future use of nuclear technology for Space exploration. The research conducted at the Ranesway site will run for 6 months to develop nuclear power for Space exploration.
The research will help create jobs as the government partners with businesses like Rolls-Royce as part of our plans to build back better. This is a fantastic project that could propel our knowledge and understanding. Projects like this create jobs and inspire future generations and show them the opportunities that are out there.
Nuclear power could provide numerous solutions to the challenges we face, not just in terms of Space exploration but also regarding energy and climate change for example. Rolls-Royce has also done some incredible work using nuclear power systems for the UK’s submarine fleet. Using their world leading technology, the nuclear Space systems shall take advantage of the latest developments in safe fuel technology to ensure that these systems are safe to launch.
Heather Wheeler MP for South Derbyshire said: “I welcome this fantastic news and am fascinated by the work Rolls-Royce will be doing with the UK Space Agency. Investing and conducting research to develop the technology to launch the next generation of astronauts presents so many opportunities.
I look forward to seeing the creation of more jobs in Derbyshire as well as inspiring more young people to pursue careers in science and engineering.”
Dave Gordon, UK Senior Vice President, Rolls-Royce Defence, said: “We are excited to be working with the UK Space Agency on this pioneering project to define future nuclear power technologies for space. We believe there is a real niche UK capability in this area and this initiative can build on the strong UK nuclear network and supply chain.
“We look forward to developing this and other exciting space projects in the future as we continue to develop the power to protect our planet, secure our world and explore our universe”
Dr Graham Turnock, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said: “Space nuclear power and propulsion is a game-changing concept that could unlock future deepspace missions that take us to Mars and beyond.
“This study will help us understand the exciting potential of atomic-powered spacecraft, and whether this nascent technology could help us travel further and faster through space than ever before.”
