Russia eyes nuclear power plant on moon by 2036
Russia's state space agency has unveiled plans to construct a power facility on the lunar surface by 2036, marking a pivotal step toward sustained exploration. The initiative targets reliable energy for critical operations, including robotic rovers, scientific observatories, and foundational infrastructure for a collaborative research outpost.
This project stems from a contract between Roscosmos and the Lavochkin Association, Russia's premier spacecraft developer, with involvement from state nuclear heavyweight Rosatom and the Kurchatov Institute, signaling a nuclear-powered design despite no explicit confirmation. The facility addresses the moon's energy hurdles, where prolonged darkness spanning up to 14 Earth days hampers solar reliance, positioning nuclear technology as essential for continuous missions.
Roscosmos frames the effort as a bridge from episodic landings to a permanent scientific hub, particularly supporting the International Lunar Research Station developed alongside China. Amid intensifying global rivalry, the United States pursues a comparable lunar nuclear reactor by 2030, underscoring the strategic push for enduring lunar footholds and beyond.
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