Placing an atomic energy source on the lunar surface is “not science fiction,” experts say, but does pose technical challenges.

Shares of BWX Technologies hit a record high, as investors believe the nuclear-power company could be involved in NASA’s lunar plans.

The group also partnered with defense giant Lockheed Martin to win a NASA contract worth $5 million in 2022 to designed the first iterations of the lunar power systems. Westinghouse and Aerojet Rocketdyne, as well as a joint venture that included Boeing, were also selected.