ESA to expand nuclear technology development for future Moon and Mars missions

The European Space Agency (ESA) is set to expand its activities in nuclear technology for space missions, appointing Markus Landgraf as Nuclear Space Coordinator. This strategic shift aims to enable longer-term missions to the Moon and Mars, and to provide more mission options for distant celestial bodies where solar energy is insufficient. Historically, ESA has avoided nuclear technology in space, unlike the USA, China, and Russia.