Many space agencies are figuring out new ways to get to Mars each day. But once humans get to Mars, they would need power to do anything at all. Spacecrafts flying to Mars can only carry a limited weight, and carrying immense amounts of fuel to power up the planet is impossible. This is why NASA is testing a compact nuclear reactor that will light up the Martian scarce-sun days and cold nights. Named Kilopower, this reactor comes in many models and sizes. The 1 kilowatt version could power a toaster and a few 10 kilowatt models could keep up a small colony. Kilopower is expected to be used in many other NASA missions as well.
School of Science 