NANO Nuclear Energy Seeks Commercial Partnerships for Lunar Surface Reactor Program
New York, N.Y., Jan. 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE), a forefront player in the advanced nuclear micro modular reactor (MMR) sector, has officially issued a Request for Information (RFI). This RFI, titled “NANO Nuclear Energy NASA Surface Fission Power Partnership Capabilities,” aims to gather insights from potential partners that can facilitate the development and deployment of NANO Nuclear’s patented LOKI MMR™ technology for lunar and extraterrestrial applications. The initiative is part of a broader mission to support the U.S. Department of Energy and NASA's objectives concerning surface fission power systems.
Strategic Importance of the Initiative
The United States is intensifying its focus on sustaining operations beyond low Earth orbit, with aspirations for missions to the Moon and Mars. Achieving these goals necessitates reliable, resilient power systems capable of functioning in extreme environments. Surface power is deemed essential for long-duration missions and developing permanent infrastructure.
This initiative aligns with an executive order from December 18, 2025, titled “Ensuring American Space Superiority,” which emphasizes returning humans to the lunar surface by 2028 and establishing a permanent lunar outpost by 2030.
Insights from NANO Nuclear Leadership
Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear, commented, “The renewed global focus on nuclear energy has been encouraging, and the momentum being driven by the United States across the sector is clear. Through this RFI, NANO Nuclear is seeking to position itself to support national objectives beyond Earth’s orbit.” He emphasized that feedback gathered through the RFI will guide the company’s strategic direction in developing lunar applications.
Focus on Advanced Fission Technologies
NANO Nuclear’s LOKI MMR™ microreactor is designed to meet stringent operational requirements for use in space. The design, developed by NANO Nuclear Space, addresses key considerations for the fission surface power (FSP) program, including:
- Continuous baseload power during extended lunar nights and Martian winters
- Autonomous startup and shutdown features
- Compatibility with launch and lander systems
- Modular interfaces for various applications
Dr. Florent Heidet, Chief Technology Officer, remarked, “The LOKI MMR™ design is inherently well suited for space-based applications.” He added that the company is committed to aligning its technology with NASA and the Department of Energy’s objectives for nuclear power in space.
Technical Specifications of LOKI MMR™
The LOKI MMR™ microreactor is capable of generating between 300 kW to 1 MW of electrical power, with scalability down to 100 kWe for space-based applications. Key technical features include:
- Produces up to 3 MWth of thermal power
- Operates at reactor coolant temperatures ranging from 500 to 950°C
- Electrical conversion efficiency of approximately 40 percent
- Integrates advanced cooling systems using helium and supercritical CO₂
- Designed to be less than 15 metric tons, including shielding and conversion components
James Walker, CEO of NANO Nuclear, stated, “This Request for Information will help inform the next phase of development for our patented LOKI MMR™ while ensuring alignment with government objectives regarding nuclear power applications.”
Call for Participation
The RFI aims to identify organizations with the capabilities necessary for systems integration, testing, qualification, manufacturing, and operations pertaining to the development of surface fission power systems. Responses to the RFI are voluntary and will solely be used for planning purposes.
Interested parties can apply for participation through the following link: Join the RFI.
About NANO Nuclear Energy Inc.
NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an innovative North American nuclear energy company focused on diverse applications across five key business areas:
- Advanced portable and microreactor technologies
- Nuclear fuel fabrication and transportation
- Space-related nuclear applications
- Nuclear industry consulting services
NANO Nuclear aims to be a leader in nuclear microreactor technology, poised to drive advancements in clean energy solutions.