U.P.P.D.

Universal Power & Propulsion Drive

A Thorium-Based Nuclear Revolution for Space Exploration

Quantum Interstellar introduces the Universal Power & Propulsion Drive (UPPD), a revolutionary thorium molten salt nuclear micro-reactor system designed for advanced space propulsion and sustained surface power generation. Leveraging dual-mode propulsion capabilities—Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) and Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP)—the UPPD is positioned to transform lunar and interplanetary missions through unprecedented efficiency, safety, and operational longevity.

UPPD represents a transformative leap in space exploration, merging nuclear innovation with modular scalability to power the next era of interplanetary travel and settlement.

The Next Era

As space missions expand beyond low Earth orbit, the need for dependable, scalable, and autonomous energy systems grows exponentially. Current chemical propulsion and solar-based power technologies face major constraints in duration, efficiency, and environmental resilience. Q Interstellar’s solution addresses this gap with a unified system capable of supporting:

  • Rapid interplanetary travel through nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP)

  • High-efficiency long-range transit using nuclear electric propulsion (NEP)

  • Sustained surface power for off-world infrastructure and operations

Our plan for exploration

Project Development Timeline

Phase 1: Lunar Surface Deployment (2033)

  • Initial reactor deployment on the Moon

  • Validation of lunar power generation

  • Supports habitats, scientific missions, and early ISRU

Phase 2: NEP for Earth-Moon-Mars Ferrying (2036)

  • Expansion to nuclear electric propulsion

  • Reliable transport between Earth-Moon and Mars

  • Continuous operation for cargo and crewed missions

Phase 3: Integrated NEP & NTP for Mars & Beyond (2039)

  • Fully integrated propulsion system

  • Rapid crewed Mars transit (~2 weeks)

  • Long-duration, high-efficiency deep-space exploration

Applications and Impact

Q Interstellar’s UPPD platform is designed to serve a wide array of advanced space infrastructure needs:

  • Lunar and Martian surface power systems

  • Cargo and crew propulsion for interplanetary logistics

  • Energy supply for autonomous industrial platforms

  • Integration with ISRU systems and long-term base development

The compact reactor format allows for launch-safe packaging, robotic deployment, and multi-decade performance with minimal servicing, positioning it as a foundational technology for sustained off-world operations.

Advanced Technology Highlights

  • Thorium Molten Salt Fuel:

    • High-temperature, corrosion-resistant fluoride-based salts

    • Enhanced proliferation resistance and fuel sustainability

  • Autonomous Operation and AI Integration:

    • Autonomous reactor management and fault detection

    • AI-driven optimization and predictive maintenance

  • High-Temperature Material Innovation:

    • Nickel-based alloys, refractory ceramics, and protective coatings

    • Advanced liquid metal intermediate heat transfer loops

  • Passive Safety Features:

    • Gravity-driven salt drain tanks

    • Negative temperature feedback

Advanced Technology Highlights

  • Thorium Molten Salt Fuel:

    • High-temperature, corrosion-resistant fluoride-based salts

    • Enhanced proliferation resistance and fuel sustainability

  • Autonomous Operation and AI Integration:

    • Autonomous reactor management and fault detection

    • AI-driven optimization and predictive maintenance

  • High-Temperature Material Innovation:

    • Nickel-based alloys, refractory ceramics, and protective coatings

    • Advanced liquid metal intermediate heat transfer loops

  • Passive Safety Features:

    • Gravity-driven salt drain tanks

    • Negative temperature feedback

A New Foundation for the Space Economy

Q Interstellar exists to solve a fundamental barrier to long-range space exploration: power. By developing a unified platform capable of propulsion and surface generation, we are enabling the infrastructure required for a permanent human presence beyond Earth.

Join Us in Shaping Humanity’s Interplanetary Future

Quantum Interstellar’s UPPD stands ready to redefine space exploration and colonization. We invite collaboration with government space agencies, aerospace primes, materials researchers, energy partners, and defense stakeholders who share in the goal of establishing scalable, autonomous, and safe space power systems.

Are you an engineer, nuclear physicist, or passionate about manufacturing? We strongly encourage you to apply & become part of our team.