Kratos Wins Contract for NASA Fission Power System
The company will build a thermal power conversion system for the SR-1 Freedom mission.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Nuclear
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NASA has awarded a $33.6 million contract to Kratos Defense & Security Solutions to develop a power system for its SR-1 Freedom spacecraft. The technology will convert thermal energy from a fission reactor into electrical power to support deep space exploration.
Why it matters
This contract supports the agency's goal of demonstrating fission power capabilities beyond Earth's orbit. The technology is critical for advancing nuclear electric propulsion systems required for future crewed missions to Mars.
Kratos is tasked with delivering a space-qualified closed Brayton cycle system to link fission reactors with propulsion subsystems. This project marks the first major U.S. space reactor initiative since the 1965 launch.
The players
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
A San Diego-based defense and aerospace company specializing in satellite communications and tactical systems.
NASA
The United States government agency responsible for the civilian space program and aeronautics research.
Sierra Lobo
An aerospace and engineering firm that serves as the prime contractor for the NASA SpaceDOC III project.
The details
As a subcontractor to Sierra Lobo under the NASA SpaceDOC III contract, Kratos will design and build the hardware for the SR-1 Freedom. This system aims to power the craft while enabling the delivery of the SkyFall payload during its mission.
Timeline
1965: The year NASA last launched a space reactor.
October 28, 2026: Kratos announced the contract award.
2028: The targeted launch date for the SR-1 Freedom.
The Big Picture
This project represents a return to fission-based power for spacecraft, building upon the foundations set by the 1965 U.S. space reactor launch. It shifts the paradigm from reliance on solar arrays to high-output nuclear propulsion for deep space travel.
Developing efficient nuclear electric propulsion could eventually provide the necessary power to shorten transit times for Mars missions. These advancements may also pave the way for future long-term lunar infrastructure projects such as the Lunar Reactor-1.
The takeaway
Advancements in fission power conversion are necessary to overcome the energy limitations currently facing long-distance space flight. Implementing these systems is essential for expanding human exploration beyond the immediate vicinity of Earth.
What happens next
The SR-1 Freedom spacecraft is scheduled for its targeted launch in 2028.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest advancements in the field at United States Nuclear.
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Should the federal government increase funding for nuclear-powered technology in deep-space exploration missions?
