Russia says it will build a Moon nuclear power plant by 2036. The plan was confirmed by Roscosmos this week. The project will support future missions on the lunar surface. It will also power a joint Russian‑Chinese research base. The update marks one of Russia’s biggest space steps in years.
The move comes as the global race for lunar power rises fast. According to Reuters, Russia wants long-term energy on the Moon to support robots, research tools, and future crews. The plan follows recent setbacks, including the Luna‑25 crash in 2023. But Moscow says it still aims to regain ground in space exploration.
Russia Moon Nuclear Power Plant to Support Long-Term Lunar Base
Roscosmos says the new plant will power rovers, labs, and other systems. The agency signed a deal with the Lavochkin Association to begin the work. It also confirmed involvement from Rosatom and the Kurchatov Institute. Both groups are major nuclear science bodies in Russia.
Officials say the plant will support the International Lunar Research Station. The station is a joint project between Russia and China. It will be built in stages over the next decade. Russia says steady power is key for a permanent base. Solar energy is not always reliable on the Moon due to long nights.
The Moon sits about 384,400 km from Earth. It helps stabilize Earth’s tilt and supports ocean tides. But its harsh climate limits power options. A nuclear plant could provide stable energy for long periods. Roscosmos says this is needed for long-term science and future crew visits.
According to Reuters, Russia’s plan is part of a wider push to reclaim its space role. It was once a leader in exploration. But in recent years, the United States and China moved ahead. Russia now wants to return to the front by leading new lunar projects with China.
US and China Also Move Toward Nuclear Power on the Moon
Russia is not alone in this race. NASA said in August that it aims to build a nuclear reactor on the Moon by early 2030. US officials say they need lunar power to support human bases. They warn that China is moving fast with its own plans.
The US says nuclear energy is key for future travel beyond the Moon. Stable power can support life support systems and deep-space missions toward Mars. NASA has also studied mining on the Moon. Experts say the surface may hold rare materials. These include Helium‑3 and rare earth metals used in high-tech devices.
International rules ban nuclear weapons in space. But they allow nuclear energy if safety steps are followed. Both the US and Russia say their lunar reactors will meet those rules. Both countries argue that clean and steady energy is vital for long-term stays.
Some scientists describe a coming “lunar gold rush.” They say countries want resources, research sites, and long-term influence. As plans grow, the Moon may soon host the first major energy sites beyond Earth.
Russia’s Moon nuclear power plant now stands as one of the boldest steps in the new space race. The project could reshape future missions. It may also shift power in global space competition.
Info at your fingertips-
Q1: Why does Russia want a Moon nuclear power plant?
Russia wants stable power for its lunar base plans. The plant would support rovers, labs, and long-term missions. It will also support the joint base with China.
Q2: When will the plant be ready?
Roscosmos says the goal year is 2036. This depends on testing, safety steps, and mission progress.
Q3: Is the US also building a lunar reactor?
Yes. NASA aims to build one by 2030. US officials say nuclear power is needed for life support and deeper travel.
Q4: Are nuclear plants allowed in space?
Yes, but only under strict rules. Global law bans nuclear weapons in space, not nuclear energy. Agencies must follow safety rules.
Q5: What resources are on the Moon?
Experts say the Moon may hold Helium‑3 and rare earth metals. These materials are used in tech devices and research. Mining them could shape future space plans.
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