In a groundbreaking announcement that could reshape the future of space exploration, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy revealed plans to construct a nuclear reactor on the Moon. This ambitious initiative, aimed at establishing a sustainable human presence on the lunar surface, marks a pivotal moment in the 21st-century space race against rivals China and Russia.

Duffy, who also serves as the interim NASA administrator, emphasized the urgency of this project during a live segment on Fox News. He stated that the reactor will be essential for supporting life on the Moon, allowing astronauts to generate oxygen and water, and powering scientific endeavors in the harsh lunar environment. With the first reactor expected to be operational by 2030, Duffy’s announcement signals a dramatic acceleration in U.S. space ambitions.

Experts have long warned that establishing a nuclear presence on the Moon is a critical step in the race for resources and technological supremacy. The lunar South Pole, believed to harbor significant water ice, is a prime target for future missions. Duffy’s plans come as China is reportedly preparing to deploy its own nuclear reactor within the next five years, raising the stakes for U.S. leadership in space.

The reactor will not only support human life but could also facilitate mining operations and other scientific experiments, making it a cornerstone of future lunar exploration. As Duffy stated, “If we don’t push forward, the Chinese and Russians won’t stop. We have to lead in space to lead on Earth.”

This announcement comes at a time of heightened interest in lunar colonization, with NASA’s Artemis program set to send astronauts back to the Moon in the near future. Duffy’s decisive action is seen as a crucial move to reclaim U.S. dominance in space exploration, and the world is watching closely as plans unfold.