Russia Aims for Lunar Power Station by 2036

Russia is set to establish a lunar power station by 2036, as announced by Roscosmos. A contract has been finalized with NPO Lavochkin to develop this crucial infrastructure, which will supply energy for lunar rovers, observatories, and the China-led International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).

This ambitious project involves extensive planning over the next decade, including spacecraft development, experimental testing, and flight tests. Roscosmos views this as a vital advancement for a permanent scientific lunar presence and a sustained lunar exploration program. Nuclear energy, supported by Rosatom and the Kurchatov Institute, is deemed the most viable long-term solution for lunar power generation.

The planned power station is a cornerstone of a joint lunar initiative with China, following an agreement signed in May. This collaboration aims to support Beijing's permanent lunar base, expected by the mid-2030s, with Russia contributing expertise in deep-space systems and nuclear power. This effort unfolds amidst escalating global lunar exploration competition, with the US also pursuing lunar presence through its Artemis program.