Russia and China are contemplating deploying a nuclear power plant on the moon between 2033 and 2035, according to Yuri Borisov, head of Russia’s space agency Roscosmos. Borisov stated this move could pave the way for future lunar settlements.
Collaborating on a lunar program, Russia and China are leveraging Moscow’s expertise in “nuclear space energy.” Borisov disclosed plans for a joint project with Chinese partners to deliver and install a power unit on the lunar surface by the mid-2030s.
Borisov emphasized the necessity of nuclear power, citing the inadequacy of solar panels for sustaining lunar settlements. He stressed the need for autonomous operations, devoid of human presence, in executing the project.
Furthermore, Borisov outlined Russia’s endeavor to develop a nuclear-powered cargo spaceship. Technical challenges have been addressed, save for the nuclear reactor’s cooling.
Describing the proposed space tugboat as a colossal structure, Borisov highlighted its potential to transport large payloads between orbits, clear space debris, and serve various other functions.
Although Russia has expressed aspirations for lunar mining, setbacks have plagued its space program, such as the failed Luna-25 mission last year. Nonetheless, Moscow remains committed to further lunar exploration, potentially culminating in joint Russian-Chinese crewed missions and the establishment of a lunar base.
China has announced its intention to land the first Chinese astronaut on the moon before 2030, while Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed US allegations of Russia’s plans to deploy nuclear weapons in space as baseless provocations aimed at dictating terms in arms negotiations.
