How unique is the Earth? Placing our planet and our Solar System in context of other stellar systems is a key driver in both astronomy and planetary science in the current age. Since in situ measurements on exoplanets are currently impossible to obtain, the HESTIA mission will target the closest alternative: interstellar objects, which originate from beyond our Solar System and pass through it only briefly as temporary visitors. These interstellar objects (ISOs) can provide unique insights in how planetary systems form, since they consist of pristine material originating from stellar systems beyond our own. HESTIA, or the Hyperbolic Earth-launched Spacecraft for Targeted Interstellar Approach, is a rapid-response mission able to perform a rendezvous approach with a future ISO. The mission will utilise remote sensing and a dedicated lander to maximise the scientific return. Onboard instruments are capable of performing infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and (thermal) imaging to study the ISO's possible prebiotic and geologic composition, including sub-surface measurements. To accomplish the rendezvous, the mission is designed to target high-velocity hyperbolic orbits capable of intercepting an ISO at large distances. Additionally, a dedicated high-temperature gas reactor is used to power the electric propulsion system capable of delivering extremely high delta-v. The HESTIA mission integrates this innovative high-quality design to perform a first-of-its-kind mission that studies an interstellar object with great detail, while building a platform that allows us to open up the doors to plenty other objects in our Solar System. ... Read more

This article outlines key standardisation needs for specific topics related to molten salt reactors (MSR), namely measurements of thermo-physical properties, safety evaluation, qualification of fuels and fuel cycles, and codes & standards for materials and components. It also explores strategies for bridging gaps in international standardisation, harmonisation and collaboration, and raises the importance of building MSR prototypes and investing in testing facilities. This article is based on a survey and direct inputs from a Putting Science into Standards workshop held on 18 and 19 March 2024 and organised by the European Commissions’ Joint Research Centre (JRC) and European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC). The workshop gathered 100 experts from research, industry and policy making to discuss the development and standardisation of MSR technologies. By working together at European and international levels, standardisation will be a key instrument to enable the development and commercialisation of mature MSR technologies to support the European Union's goal of achieving fully functioning small modular reactors by 2030. ... Read more