Can nuclear batteries be used in space?

Brian Ellis from Canadian Nuclear Laboratories highlights the particular advantages that nuclear batteries offer for space applications. One day on the moon lasts around 29.5 Earth days, and for half of that time the surface is in dark. Temperatures during the day can hit 120°C near the equator; in contrast, deep lunar craters can slump to -246°C.

What is a commercial battery system?

Unlike residential batteries, which are typically compact units, commercial systems integrate multiple battery packs into a containerized cabinet to meet higher capacity demands. These lithium-ion battery packs offer high energy density, long cycle life, and modular scalability.

What is a containerized battery energy storage system?

Containerized Battery Energy Storage Systems, or BESS, are modular, scalable energy storage solutions that integrate batteries, PCS, BMS, EMS, and thermal management within a standard container. They store energy from renewables or the grid and discharge it when needed, enabling peak shaving, load shifting, and grid support.

Can nuclear batteries be used in commercial applications?

Nuclear batteries can provide long-lasting power to pacemakers, sensors embedded in buildings and bridges, and even planetary rovers. While the technology has existed for decades, recent advances mean that many research organisations and companies are now exploring a range of new opportunities to grow the batteries’ use in commercial applications.

What is a betavoltaic battery?

Betavoltaic batteries convert decay energy into electrical energy for various uses. Annual research publications on betavoltaic technology grew by 8.76 % from 2000 to 2024. Key themes include nuclear batteries, gallium nitride, silicon carbide, and nanotech. Emerging themes focus on radiation remediation and micro nuclear batteries for implants.

Where do micronuclear batteries come from?

Due to the fact that the radioisotopes used to power nuclear batteries are generally produced in nuclear reactors, micronuclear battery innovation has historically been driven by national nuclear labs, particularly in the US, Canada, Russia and China. And projects tend to remain within borders, given the nature of the material.