Breakthroughs of next-generation space nuclear power and propulsion technology will completely change the style of future space exploration missions. At present, the United States and Russia have accelerated their research and development processes of space nuclear power systems to keep their leading positions. This article outlines the classification and application scenarios of space nuclear power systems, summarizes the technology development processes and strategies of the US and Russia. Furthermore, the development trend of space nuclear power is analyzed. The results indicate that compared to the Cold War era, future space exploration missions have put forward new requirements for the power, flexibility, reliability, and safety of the nuclear power systems. The US and Russia attach great importance to the development of space nuclear power technology but there are differences in development strategies and technological routes. The US is conducting comprehensive research and development on radioisotope thermo-electric generator, space reactors, nuclear thermal propulsion systems, and nuclear electric propulsion systems, all driven by next-generation space capability development and deep space exploration projects. Russia, on the other hand, focuses on developing nuclear power propulsion spacecraft projects, taking its own advantages in nuclear power propulsion technology, with the intention of maintaining its competitiveness in the space field with limited resource investment.

space nuclear power  /  nuclear propulsion  /  space nuclear reactor