In a sweeping update on U.S. space and tech strategy, Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy emphasized the urgent need to build a nuclear reactor on the Moon, calling the project "critically important" to America’s space exploration and national security goals. The effort aims to outpace China and Russia in what many are calling the second space race.

Duffy’s remarks came alongside the U.S. Transportation Department’s announcement of proposed new rules to expand drone operations, specifically those beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). The current limitations require waivers for such operations — a major hurdle for scaling up commercial uses like drone-based deliveries.

The twin announcements signal a clear pivot toward accelerated innovation in both space and aerial tech, with the U.S. seeking to maintain dominance over its geopolitical rivals in critical emerging domains.