Nuclear reactor core with rotating fuel modules and related systems

A nuclear reactor core comprising:

• a neutron moderator;
• a plurality of cylindrical fuel modules positioned within the neutron moderator, wherein each of the plurality of fuel modules comprises:
• a cylindrical body having opposing flat end surfaces and a curvilinear surface between the flat end surfaces;
• nuclear fuel arranged in one or more fuel strips formed in the curvilinear surface of the cylindrical body;
• and
• at least one coolant channel extending between the flat end surfaces and configured to allow a coolant to flow through the cylindrical body;
• at least one fuel-module actuator mechanically coupled to at least one of the plurality of fuel modules, wherein the at least one fuel-module actuator is configured to rotate the at least one of the plurality of fuel modules about an axis of the cylindrical body;
• and
• at least one neutron source that is distinct from the plurality of fuel modules, wherein:
• the at least one neutron source is positioned within the neutron moderator on a track or rail formed in the neutron moderator;
• and
• the at least one neutron source is configured to emit neutrons to trigger and sustain a fission chain reaction in the nuclear fuel, wherein the fission chain reaction is maintained in a subcritical condition.