Canada is moving to expand its role in supplying nuclear isotopes that could power spacecraft on long-duration missions.

The Nuclear Innovation Institute launched the Canadian Centre for Space Isotopes this week in Toronto. The organization will focus on research, policy, and partnerships across the nuclear and space industries.

Radioisotope power systems convert heat from radioactive decay into electricity. They provide steady power without relying on sunlight, making them useful for missions traveling far from the Sun.