Electricity generation for lunar bases during construction and operation: Key technologies, challenges and development roadmap

Abstract

The lunar base serves as a critical outpost for deep space exploration. Consequently, a safe and reliable energy system is of significance for its construction and operation. The key technologies and challenges related to the research and development of the lunar base electric system need to be clarified, and a preliminary technical roadmap should be outlined in advance. This article examines the evolution of space activity development and the lunar exploration plans of China, the United States, and the European Union. Building on this analysis, it outlines the requirements, major types and key technologies of the electric systems for lunar bases. Lunar exploration can be divided into three stages: uncrewed exploration, crewed lunar landing and lunar base operation, with energy demands escalating from hundreds of watts in the initial stage to hundreds of kilowatts in later stages. The article summarizes the advancements in electricity production technologies, including photovoltaic systems, concentrating solar power, radioisotope thermoelectric generators, space nuclear reactors and thermoelectric generators. It also highlights critical technical challenges that must be addressed such as prolonged periods of daylight and darkness, extreme temperature conditions on the lunar surface, etc. A technical roadmap for the development of electricity generation technologies is proposed to support the evolution of lunar bases. As energy demands may eventually reach gigawatt levels, the integrated energy system will have to rely on diversified power generation equipment and supporting facilities to ensure their operation and development.