NASA is accelerating its plans to build a 100-kilowatt nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030, with the goal of establishing a sustainable power source to support a permanent lunar base. Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy has emphasized the urgency of this project to secure American presence on the lunar surface ahead of rival nations China and Russia, amid an intensifying space race. The reactor is expected to provide enough energy to power approximately 80 homes and address the challenge of lunar nights lasting 14 Earth days, when solar power is unavailable. This initiative is part of NASA's broader Artemis program and reflects a strategic push to maintain U.S. leadership in space exploration. While industry stakeholders have shown support, experts have raised questions about the feasibility, legality, and long-term reliability of deploying nuclear power in space. The announcement has also influenced nuclear-related stocks, highlighting potential economic impacts. The project aligns with increased federal investment in NASA and is seen as critical for future lunar colonization and extended missions to Mars.