Intuitive Machines announces $8.2M contract extension from AFRL

Intuitive Machines (LUNR) announced an $8.2M contract extension from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s Space Vehicles Directorate to develop next-generation nuclear power systems for spacecraft and lunar infrastructure. Intuitive Machines is using the funding to accelerate readiness of compact nuclear power conversion technology that overcomes solar power limitations and enables lengthier missions on the Moon and in deep space. The award builds on Intuitive Machines’ earlier $9.5M progress under a previous AFRL program, an initiative led by AFRL to develop compact nuclear power systems for space applications. That effort included the design of a Stirling-based power conversion system, which transforms heat from a radioisotope source into electricity. That phase culminated in a successful preliminary design review by Intuitive Machines in September. With this new funding, the company will begin preparing the system for flight, marking a step toward demonstrating space-based nuclear power in orbit.