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Russia Plans Moon Reactor with China
7 Apr
Summary
- Russia is developing a small lunar reactor.
- Project involves Roscosmos, Rosatom, and Kurchatov Institute.
- International Lunar Research Station concept approved with China.
Russia is making significant strides in its lunar ambitions, with Roscosmos, Rosatom, and the Kurchatov Institute collaborating on the development of a small reactor for deployment on the Moon. Roscosmos CEO Dmitry Bakanov confirmed that while not all technical challenges are resolved, a specific project schedule is in place, and the necessary technologies are advancing.
This endeavor is closely linked to the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a project Russia is undertaking in partnership with China. The Russian Academy of Sciences has approved the concept for the Russian segment of the ILRS. This collaborative station aims to conduct fundamental space research and test technologies for long-term operations, with the potential for human presence.
Further solidifying international cooperation, activities related to the lunar program will involve Russia, China, and an additional 13 countries. In May 2025, Roscosmos and the China National Space Administration (CNSA) formalized their commitment with a memorandum to construct a power plant for the ILRS. The ongoing Russian Space Week 2026, celebrating the 65th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin's flight, highlights these significant developments in space exploration.
