- Nuclear waste can fuel decades-long autonomous operations worldwide
- DARPA wants batteries that provide power continuously for up to 30 years
- Project Omega efficiently converts radiation directly into usable electrical energy
Scientists working with a US defense program are developing compact nuclear batteries designed to provide electricity continuously for decades.
The effort revolves around radioisotope power systems that convert radiation directly into electricity instead of storing energy through chemical reactions.
Developers believe these lightweight devices could eventually keep drones, satellites and remote equipment operating without conventional battery replacements for years.
Nuclear waste becomes fuel for decades of uninterrupted power
The program falls under DARPA’s “Rads to Watts” initiative, which seeks compact power sources that deliver high energy density and long life.
A recent award of $3.37 million supports the development of a proof-of-concept device that produces more than 10 watts per hour. kilograms.
A participant in the program, Project Omega, is developing the generator that uses isotopes extracted from existing nuclear waste rather than newly produced radioactive material from dedicated facilities.
“Solar cells convert direct sunlight into electricity … Ours convert direct radiation into electricity,” said Stafford Sheehan, CEO and founder of Project Omega.
“We already have some of these small devices running; the ones specifically designed to meet the DARPA value will come out early next year.”
Scientists estimate that more than 100,000 tons of nuclear waste currently remain stored across 52 reactor sites nationwide.
Sheehan argued that existing stockpiles provide ample material, while unresolved disposal issues continue to generate expensive legal disputes for authorities annually.
“At a high level, we take nuclear waste, we recycle it into two products: one is fuel for reactors … the other is power isotopes, so isotopes you can use to power things.”
Unlike conventional rechargeable cells, the proposed devices use solid-state isotope blocks layered with semiconductors that generate electricity through radiation exposure.
Military planners see obvious advantages to drones and satellites
Radioisotope power systems have powered spacecraft and science missions for decades, typically using plutonium-based materials.
Project Omega will now use Strontium-90, which developers describe as less dangerous than Plutonium-238 alternatives currently in use.
The batteries are also expected to operate across extreme temperatures that often create complications for military hardware in harsh environments.
Military interest comes as demand for unmanned systems grows alongside lingering concerns about charging requirements during expanded deployments around the world.
A drone capable of operating for 30 years with continuous power on board will change assumptions about endurance and logistics requirements.
Several organizations participate in the Rads to Watts program, including Morgan State University, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Northrop Grumman, ARA, and Widetronix.
Scientists expect a minimally viable prototype to emerge in early 2027 after testing under increasingly realistic operating conditions and scenarios.
However, conversion efficiency, radiation effects, reliability and safe implementation still require extensive evaluation efforts.
If the technology succeeds, autonomous systems capable of operating for decades may become technically feasible.
Via Defense One
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