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warrant2k t1_izbn2d6 wrote

What are the differences/concerns of a nuclear reactor operating on the moon vice on earth. Does the moon's exosphere require different technology of operation? Would the cold temperature be sufficient to cool the rods?

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nivlark t1_izc2ga8 wrote

No, you still need a fluid to carry the heat away. Assuming the point of the reactor is to produce electricity, water would still be a natural choice because it turns to steam which can then be used to drive a turbine.

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Triabolical_ t1_izcz3ny wrote

Cooling is very hard in space because you can't use conduction or convection, so all you can do is use radiation.

NASA has a project named KiloPowerthat is working to build reactors for the moon and mars.

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