▣ Title : Space Reactor Regulation: International Experience and a Framework for Korea

▣ Speaker : Dr. Seok Bin Park(SNU Nuclear Energy Policy Center)

▣ Date & Time : 2026. 11.12(Thu) 16:30~17:30

▣ Venue : Research Building I, Room 310

▣ Language : English

▣ Abstract

This lecture explores the regulatory foundations for Korea’s development and deployment of space nuclear reactors. Drawing on Korea’s space development plans and international experience, including the United States, it examines nuclear safety, safeguards and security across the entire mission lifecycle.

Participants will learn how thermal extremes, vacuum, microgravity or reduced gravity, and radiation exposure affect reactor systems and regulatory requirements. Key topics include separately authorized ground nuclear testing, maintaining subcriticality during pre-launch handling and launch, verifying approved conditions before operational startup, and assessing launch accidents, unintended re-entry, radiological consequences and end-of-service management.

The lecture also explains why fuel enrichment should reflect reactor design, mission requirements and applicable constraints, rather than a universal requirement for HALEU. It distinguishes safeguards for verifying non-diversion from security measures against theft, sabotage, unauthorized access and cyber threats. Material accountancy, authenticated remote monitoring, tamper-resistant features, physical protection and export controls will also be discussed.

International treaty obligations and non-binding guidance will be reviewed, including the Outer Space Treaty, the 1992 UN Nuclear Power Source Principles and the 2009 COPUOS？IAEA Safety Framework. Their scope and the need for additional protection criteria for personnel and environments beyond Earth’s biosphere will receive particular attention.

The session concludes with a proposed Korean regulatory approach: staged pre-licensing reviews, clear institutional responsibilities, mission-specific technical criteria and international cooperation through COPUOS, the IAEA, OECD/NEA and ISO/TC 20/SC 14. A case discussion will consider how these arrangements can support timely technology development while preserving independent safety review.