NASA explains how it’s making batteries for the Moon’s extreme temperatures
NASA is developing batteries that could operate through the Moon’s extreme temperature swings, with potential use on future Artemis missions. The work matters because standard lithium-ion batteries rely on liquid electrolytes that can freeze in severe cold and struggle in very high heat.
The project, called SPEARS, is testing batteries that use solid ceramic or polymer materials instead of liquid electrolytes. They still need warming to work, but have so far avoided damage from extreme cold and need less energy for temperature management than conventional lithium-ion batteries. Lunar daytime temperatures can reach 100°C, while nights near the south pole may fall to minus 200°C; the technology is also being developed for Mars and could eventually have uses on Earth.
- NASA is developing batteries for extreme lunar temperatures.
- SPEARS uses solid materials instead of liquid electrolytes.
- The technology could support Artemis missions and may have uses on Earth.
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The Moon has little atmosphere to soften temperature changes, so its surface can become extremely hot in daylight and bitterly cold at night. This is a challenge for spacecraft, which need dependable power to run equipment through those conditions.
NASA’s Artemis programme aims to send people back to the Moon and support longer stays there. Batteries could store power for vehicles, instruments and other equipment, but many common lithium-ion batteries use a liquid material that can freeze in severe cold or struggle in heat.
SPEARS is a NASA project exploring batteries that use solid ceramic or polymer materials instead. They still need warming before use, but tests suggest they can withstand extreme cold with less energy spent managing their temperature; similar technology may also be useful on Mars or, eventually, on Earth.