Russia and China are exploring the possibility of deploying a nuclear power plant on the moon between 2033 and 2035, according to Yuri Borisov, the chief of Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency. This initiative, Borisov notes, could eventually support the construction of lunar settlements. Having previously served as a deputy defence minister, Borisov highlighted the collaboration between Russia and China on lunar exploration, emphasizing Russia’s contributions to nuclear space energy. He outlined the inadequacy of solar panels for powering future lunar bases, advocating for nuclear energy as a viable alternative.
Furthermore, Russia is contemplating the development of a nuclear-powered cargo spacecraft. Borisov described this venture as a significant challenge, necessitating automation for installing the power unit on the moon, thus excluding human presence. He detailed Russia’s ambition to create a “space tugboat,” powered by a nuclear reactor and robust turbines, capable of transporting large cargoes between orbits and collecting space debris, among other functions. However, the project faces hurdles, particularly in cooling the nuclear reactor, which remains unresolved.
Despite the ambitious nature of these plans, the Russian space program has encountered numerous difficulties, including the failure of its first moon mission in 47 years when the Luna-25 spacecraft crashed. Nevertheless, Russia is planning additional lunar missions, considering a joint manned mission with China and the potential establishment of a lunar base. Concurrently, China has announced its goal to land an astronaut on the moon by 2030.
Russian President Vladimir Putin recently refuted U.S. claims that Russia intends to deploy nuclear weapons in space, labelling it a strategy to entice Russia into arms negotiations under Western conditions.
