United NationsOffice for Outer Space Affairs

The use of nuclear power sources (NPS) in outer space has opened up the solar system to exploration, making it possible to send space missions to distant planetary bodies that would otherwise be unreachable. Embarking on a new era for space exploration with return of humans to the Moon, and beyond, depends on mass-efficient, high-energy solutions to power deep-space vehicles, operate in harsh environments and increase mission flexibility. Established already in the late 1970s, the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of COPUOS, has a long record of productive work. In addition to serving as a mechanism to exchange information on the use of nuclear power sources in outer space, to benefit from lessons learned and facilitate international cooperation, this had led to the 1992 Principles on the Use of NPS in Outer Space and the 2009 Safety Framework for Nuclear Power Source Applications in Outer Space, developed, jointly with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Under the current five-year (2024-2028) workplan of the Working Group on the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space (see A/AC.105/1279, annex III), one of the three main objectives is to collect and analyse relevant technical information about potential future uses of NPS in outer space, in particular those involving nuclear reactors. In furtherance of this objective, the Working Group, alongside the IAEA, is organising this Joint Workshop on the 'Future of Nuclear Power Source Applications in Outer Space'.

The Joint Workshop with the IAEA aims to gather information on emerging technologies and applications, particularly nuclear reactors for deep-space missions, supporting humanand robotic exploration of the Moon, Mars and the outer solar system. Invited representatives of States, international intergovernmental organizations, industry and academia will exchange views, plans and experiences in using NPS applications and their future plans over the next two decades.

The workshop will also address the implementation of legal, regulatory, and technical measures for the safe use of NPS in outer space and and exchange on the value of existing frameworks given technology advances adn planned use cases: The 1992 Principles Relevant to the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space and the Safety Framework for Nuclear Power Source Applications in Outer Space, jointly developed by the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space and the IAEA in 2009.

Over the course of this Workshop participants will have the opportunity to hear from both experienced actors in the use of Nuclear Power Source Application in Outer Space, as well as emerging actors involved in the development of novel methods for the future of outer space exploration. The Workshop will provide ample opportunity for engagement, learning and coordination.