STAR☆FIRE 2025 Summer Workshop

Space Technology for Advanced Reactor Fueling Innovation in Research and Exploration (STAR☆FIRE) 2025 Summer Workshop 

Embark on a transformative journey into space nuclear technology at STAR☆FIRE 2025. This premier gathering, hosted by Idaho National Laboratory, offers a select cohort of undergraduates, graduate students and recent graduates an unparalleled opportunity to present research, forge connections and delve into the latest advancements in space fission. Held at the National Atomic Testing Museum in Las Vegas from July 21-22, 2025, this workshop is a nexus for innovation and growth. Selected students will be invited to a tour of the National Criticality Experiments Research Center (NCERC), graciously hosted by Los Alamos National Laboratory.

About
STAR☆FIRE 2025 unites students and experts to drive the exploration of nuclear power in space. Our mission is to catalyze discovery, discussion and development in this critical field, paving the way for the next generation of pioneering space endeavors. The previous STAR☆FIRE Summer Workshop, held July 22-23, 2024 at Idaho National Laboratory, was an immersive two-day event that gathered 28 students from 12 universities to explore the state of and innovations related to nuclear technology for space applications (see last year’s agenda here). The workshop served as a platform for technical presentations, student research showcases and behind-the-scenes facility tours, fostering a comprehensive understanding of space fission systems and building new professional relationships.

For students
The committee will select up to 40 applicants held at the National Atomic Testing Museum, with 24 applicants staying an additional day for a tour of the NCERC. The 24 participants for the tour will be chosen through a lottery system prior to the workshop. Thanks to Idaho National Laboratory’s generous support, selected participants will receive funding for airfare and accommodations. The hotel will provide breakfast, the workshop will offer lunch, and applicants will be responsible for their own dinner. Applicants will arrive on July 20th and depart on either July 22nd or July 23rd if selected for the NCERC tour.

Apply to Participate
We would like to collect some information about you, your background, interests and related activities to help us select the top 40 candidates to participate.  The link below will take you to a survey to collect this information, to allow us to make a decision.