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NASA has announced plans to build a nuclear reactor on the Moon to power future lunar bases and missions. The project follows previous nuclear space initiatives, including the SNAP reactors and Kilopower tests.

While designs prioritize safety, concerns about a potential meltdown arise, although the unique lunar environment would lead to different outcomes compared to Earth. A meltdown could result in localized radiation exposure without atmospheric fallout. The project's history includes previous nuclear endeavors and even a secret proposal to detonate a hydrogen bomb on the Moon.