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CANADIAN COLLABORATION TO EXPLORE ISOTOPE PRODUCTION FOR SPACE EXPLORATION

Canada is actively exploring the use of nuclear technology for space exploration, particularly through the production of isotopes used in spacecraft.

Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council (CNIC) and Nuclear Promise X (NPX) Collaboration

• Feasibility Study: CNIC and NPX are collaborating on a study for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to explore the feasibility of using Canadian nuclear reactors to produce Plutonium-238 (Pu-238). Pu-238 is a non-weapons-grade radioactive material that generates heat through its radioactive decay, providing a reliable power source for deep space missions 1.
• Isotope Production: The study will investigate how Canadian reactors can irradiate Neptunium-237 (Np-237) to produce Pu-238. This involves evaluating the costs associated with production, shipment, and extraction of the energy source 1.
• Existing Infrastructure: The goal is to leverage Canada's existing infrastructure for medical isotope production to add Pu-238 production to their portfolio. This could provide a sustainable source of power for spacecraft operating in environments where solar energy is insufficient2.

Significance of Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS)

• Historical Use: RPSs have been used by NASA since the 1960s to provide reliable power and heat for missions like the Voyager and Pioneer spacecraft, as well as the Perseverance rover.
• Future Applications: With limited supplies of Pu-238, the collaboration aims to ensure a steady supply for future deep space missions.

Global Leadership in Isotope Production

• Isotopes for Hope Campaign: CNIC's campaign aims to assert Canada's global leadership in the use of isotopes to tackle significant challenges, including space exploration.
• Economic Feasibility: The study will determine if it is economically feasible for Canada to produce Pu-238, potentially making Canada a key player in supporting international space missions.

This collaboration highlights Canada's commitment to advancing space technology and contributing to the global effort of exploring the cosmos.

 1  Canadian collaboration to explore isotope production for space exploration - World Nuclear News