World Solve

Addressing nuclear families facing pressure is critical for achieving the 2030 Agenda. Current efforts fall short in scale, speed and equity, leaving the most vulnerable behind. Any viable solution must function in low-resource settings with limited specialists, transport, laboratory capacity and broadband. Proposals should specify quantifiable biological, social or environmental outcomes, openly discuss potential risks, and present a realistic pathway for long-term maintenance and local ownership beyond short research pilots.

Addressing nuclear weapons still existing is critical for achieving the 2030 Agenda. Current efforts fall short in scale, speed and equity, leaving the most vulnerable behind. Any viable solution must function in low-resource settings with limited specialists, transport, laboratory capacity and broadband. Proposals should specify quantifiable biological, social or environmental outcomes, openly discuss potential risks, and present a realistic pathway for long-term maintenance and local ownership beyond short research pilots.

Their equation of state depends on poorly constrained nuclear physics at extreme densities. Multi-messenger observations of mergers and precise timing can narrow possibilities.

Ongoing tensions involving nuclear-armed states in the region require careful diplomatic management to prevent escalation. Track-two diplomacy platforms and transparent verification mechanisms can support de-escalation efforts.

Current radioisotope thermoelectric generators rely on scarce Pu-238, limiting mission frequency and payload capacity. Developing miniaturized, high-efficiency nuclear or alternative power sources is vital for continuous outer-planet exploration.

Transit times to Mars and the outer planets require months to years of flight, increasing risk and cost. Breakthrough high-thrust, high-Isp propulsion systems—such as nuclear thermal or plasma engines—are critical.

To achieve high efficiency, nuclear thermal engines must run hydrogen propellant at temperatures over 2,500 K, which corrodes reactor cores. Development of advanced ultra-high-temperature carbide and nitride nuclear ceramics is vital.

Solar panels provide zero power during the two-week lunar night, where temperatures drop to -130°C. Regenerative fuel cells and compact nuclear reactors tailored for long lunar nights are required.

Decisions today about climate, resource use, or nuclear waste will affect people who haven't been born yet and have no way to advocate for themselves. How much their future interests should count remains genuinely unresolved.

Achieving systems for continuous verification of nuclear non-proliferation commitments at meaningful scale demands simultaneous progress in fundamental research, engineering integration and socio-technical systems that work for low- and middle-income settings. Existing efforts remain fragmented relative to the magnitude of the challenge.

A persistent gap exists in realizing practical, scalable solutions for institutional designs that reduce the risk of nuclear escalation in multipolar crises. Scientific understanding, engineering readiness and institutional capacity remain insufficient to translate promising concepts into durable impact under real-world constraints of cost, skills and governance.

Current approaches to solutions for safe and equitable management of the growing volumes of nuclear waste either underperform under variable field conditions or generate externalities that undermine long-term sustainability and equity. Closing the gap requires coordinated advances in science, systems design and enabling institutions.