Abstract: Space nuclear power is one of the key technologies for achieving deep space exploration and carrier transportation in the future. Space nuclear power has the characteristics of long service life, good maneuverability, and minimal impact from the space environment. It is a high-quality energy source that provides energy in space. Nuclear fuel is the core component of space nuclear power reactors, located in long-term, high-temperature, and high radiation service environments. It is a key material that affects the efficient and stable operation of space nuclear reactors, which is significantly different from traditional pressurized water reactor UO2 fuel. This paper reviews the development trends and research progress of space nuclear power reactor fuels, represents by nuclear power sources and nuclear propulsion. It compares and analyzes the diffe-rences in fuel systems used in different space nuclear power systems, and systematically elaborates on the key issues affecting the application of space nuclear power fuels from the aspects of fuel design, process preparation, performance analysis, and service evaluation. It also proposed the technical direction and research focus of future space nuclear power fuels in China. Providing support for the optimization design and perfor-mance improvement of fuel for advanced space nuclear power reactors in China.
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2025, Vol. 39 
