Shruti Suman
Russia and China are contemplating the construction of a joint nuclear power plant on the moon by 2033-35, according to Yuri Borisov, the head of Russia’s space agency Roscosmos. This endeavor, he stated, could pave the way for the establishment of lunar settlements.
Borisov, a former deputy defense minister, revealed that Russia and China have been collaborating on a lunar program, with Moscow offering its expertise in “nuclear space energy.”
“We are currently seriously considering a project – around the years 2033-2035 – to transport and install a power unit on the lunar surface in collaboration with our Chinese counterparts,” Borisov stated.
He explained that solar panels would not suffice to supply adequate electricity for future lunar settlements, while nuclear power could address this need.
Borisov emphasized the necessity for the project to be executed autonomously, without human presence, describing it as a significant challenge.
Additionally, Borisov discussed Russian plans to develop a nuclear-powered cargo spaceship, noting that most technical aspects of the project have been resolved except for cooling the nuclear reactor.
“We are actively developing a space tugboat – a massive, advanced structure equipped with a nuclear reactor and high-power turbines – capable of transporting large payloads between orbits, clearing space debris, and serving various other purposes,” Borisov elaborated.
While Russian officials have previously outlined ambitious schemes for lunar mining, the Russian space program has encountered setbacks in recent years, notably with the failure of its Luna-25 spacecraft last year.
Nevertheless, Moscow intends to proceed with further lunar missions and explore the potential for joint Russian-China crewed missions and the establishment of a lunar base.
China has announced its goal to land the first Chinese astronaut on the moon before 2030.
In response to a US warning alleging Russia’s intention to deploy nuclear weapons in space, Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed the claim as false, asserting that it was a tactic to manipulate arms negotiations to the West’s advantage.
