Rossetti, G; Smith, A; (2025) Conceptual Design for High-Level Nuclear Waste Disposal in Outer Space. Journal of the British Interplanetary Society , 78 (2) pp. 6-19. 10.59332/jbis-078-01-0006.

Text Smith_ROSSETTI-BIS_Publication__Nuclear_Waste_Disposal_in_Outer_Space.pdf - Accepted Version Access restricted to UCL open access staff until 2 February 2026. Download (3MB)

Abstract

The disposal of high-level nuclear waste (HLW) is a critical environmental and safety challenge. This study explores the feasibility of utilising outer space as a disposal site for HLW, leveraging advancements in space launch and our understanding of orbital mechanics. SpaceX's Falcon Heavy is identified as a cost-effective and reliable launch system, while an SA350 LF3 steel-based payload encapsulation system is proposed to convert decay heat into thrust, enhancing overall mission efficiency. Jupiter is selected as the disposal destination. Economic analysis indicates disposal costs of ~£2,460/kg with Falcon Heavy and ~£520/kg with Starship, requiring 75 and 25 annual launches, respectively, to manage global HLW production. Results demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of this approach, providing a novel alternative to Earth-based methods.

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