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Astronomy and spaceflightWed 21 Oct 2026 · 12 of 12

NASA unveils SR-1 Freedom, first fission-powered spacecraft slated for 2028 launch

Verified · 10/10 supported1 cited · 1 min read

nasa.gov reports that NASA announced the Space Reactor-1 (SR-1) Freedom mission, its first fission-powered spacecraft to travel beyond Earth orbit, at the agency’s “Ignition” event . nasa.gov reports that the mission will demonstrate nuclear electric propulsion in deep space . nasa.gov reports that progress is underway on the nuclear power module, with Sierra Lobo Inc. providing the closed Brayton cycle power converter . nasa.gov reports that contract actions are intended to keep the project on track and reduce technical risk . nasa.gov reports that NASA targets a launch of SR-1 Freedom in 2028 .

Why it matters. nasa.gov reports that the contract actions reduce technical risk and help maintain momentum toward the 2028 launch, strengthening collaboration with partners .

Earlier on Astronomy and spaceflight

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