Nuclear energy is a leading option to power space exploration, but its success depends on reactors that can operate autonomously rather than relying on human operators in space.
To help make that vision a reality, Oak Ridge National Laboratory has built a non-nuclear test bed that mimics the conditions of a space nuclear reactor to overcome the high cost and strict regulations required for testing in a reactor environment. This "hardware-in-the-loop" system - a system combining real hardware with computer models to simulate conditions - enables NASA and industry partners to rapidly develop and validate autonomous controls and hardware using cost-effective components and open-source software.
"Our test bed gives engineers the ability to push autonomous control systems to their limits in a safe, repeatable environment," said ORNL's Brandon Wilson. "That means we can identify and solve problems here on Earth - before astronauts rely on these systems millions of miles from home."
This research is funded by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center with Dianne Ezell serving as the Space Nuclear Program lead. - Liz McCrory
