French firm's fast neutron nuclear reactor gets $26 million boost

Stellaria, a French startup emerging from CEA and Schneider Electric, has secured €23 million (about $26.88 million) in new funding to develop the Stellarium, a fourth-generation fast neutron molten salt nuclear reactor. This reactor is designed to operate on a closed fuel cycle using chloride salt liquid fuel and aims to be the world’s first commercial reactor capable of destroying more long-lived nuclear waste than it produces. With total funding now at €33 million, including support from the France 2030 program, Stellaria plans to achieve its first fission reaction by 2029 and begin commercial deployment by 2035. The fresh capital will support technical, regulatory, and workforce expansion efforts, including filing for necessary nuclear installation authorizations and enhancing research collaborations. The Stellarium reactor emphasizes minimal innovation focused on proven principles to accelerate development and ensure safety and efficiency. Key features include passive cooling via natural convection, isogeneration to sustain its fuel cycle, and four physical containment barriers—one more