Moscow: In a move that could redefine the global space race, China and Russia have signed a landmark agreement to jointly build a nuclear power plant on the Moon by 2036. The plant will serve as the primary energy source for the ambitious International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a multi-nation project led by the two countries aimed at establishing a permanent base on the Moon’s south pole.
The announcement comes at a crucial moment, as NASA has proposed significant budget cuts for its Artemis program, including the cancellation of the planned Lunar Gateway orbital station. This has raised questions about the United States’ ability to maintain its leadership in space exploration.
A Revolutionary Step: China-Russia Lunar Nuclear Plant
The deal signed between Beijing and Moscow outlines plans to construct an autonomous, human-free nuclear power facility that will energize the ILRS. The plant will be key to enabling long-term robotic operations and potentially future human missions on the Moon.
Yuri Borisov, Director General of Russia’s space agency Roscosmos, stated that the power plant will be constructed without human presence, using advanced automated technology. While details remain sparse, Borisov emphasized that the technology is “almost ready.”
Construction is scheduled to begin between 2030 and 2035, with completion targeted for 2036. The foundation of the ILRS itself is set to be laid by China’s Chang’e-8 mission in 2028, which could also mark China’s first manned landing on the Moon.
What Is the ILRS?
First announced in June 2021, the International Lunar Research Station is envisioned as a collaborative, permanent lunar base located at the Moon’s south pole. Seventeen countries have joined the initiative so far, including Egypt, Pakistan, Venezuela, Thailand, and South Africa.
The project includes:
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Five super-heavy-lift rocket launches from 2030–2035
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Expansion to a full lunar research infrastructure by 2050
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Development of an orbital lunar station and two surface nodes on the equator and far side of the Moon
Energy sources for ILRS will include solar power, radioisotope generators, and nuclear power. The station will also feature high-speed Moon-Earth communication networks, lunar rovers, and human-rated vehicles.
The overarching aim is to support scientific research, sustain unmanned operations for extended periods, and lay groundwork for eventual manned missions to Mars.
China’s Growing Space Ambitions
China has aggressively advanced its space program over the last decade. After its first lunar rover, Chang’e-3, landed in 2013, China has achieved several milestones, including:
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Sample return missions from the Moon’s near and far sides
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Robotic missions to Mars
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Detailed lunar mapping initiatives
China aims to land astronauts on the Moon by 2030 and emerge as a global space leader by mid-century. The ILRS, along with the new nuclear plant, plays a pivotal role in that vision.
NASA’s Artemis Program in Trouble?
Coinciding with the China-Russia announcement, NASA has revealed major setbacks for its Artemis program. In its 2026 budget proposal, the agency announced:
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Cancellation of the Lunar Gateway orbital station
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Ending the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion programs after Artemis III
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A proposed 24% budget cut, including a $500 million reduction for the International Space Station
Artemis III, which plans to return American astronauts to the Moon by 2027, has already been delayed once. With the latest cuts, the mission’s timeline and future are under serious threat.
A New Space Race: China-Russia vs. USA
The partnership between China and Russia signals a new chapter in the global space race. While NASA’s ambitions are mired in delays and budgetary issues, China and Russia are advancing with a clear roadmap and growing international support.
Strengths of the China-Russia Axis:
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Expertise in nuclear energy and space technology
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Experience from China’s Chang’e missions and Russia’s automated systems
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Strategic alignment of resources and long-term vision
Challenges for the US:
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Budget cuts and political uncertainty
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Technical delays in Artemis missions
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Potential loss of leadership in lunar exploration
Strategic and Scientific Significance
The proposed nuclear power plant is not just a technological milestone—it also has deep geopolitical implications. It demonstrates increasing cooperation between China and Russia in strategic sectors, including those affecting global influence.
Scientific Benefits:
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In-depth study of the lunar surface and its resources
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Enhanced understanding of space environments
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Technological foundations for Mars missions
Strategic Gains:
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Dominance in space infrastructure development
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Expanded global influence through international cooperation
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Strengthened ties in regions like the Indo-Pacific, where both countries seek increased foothold
India’s Position
India, known for its Chandrayaan missions and growing space capabilities, has not yet joined the ILRS or Artemis initiatives. However, its successful lunar and interplanetary missions position it as a potential partner for future collaborations in space exploration.
The China-Russia plan to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon marks a significant shift in the global dynamics of space exploration. With clear goals, growing international participation, and advanced planning, the ILRS could become the world’s first sustainable lunar research base. Meanwhile, the United States faces an uphill battle to maintain its space dominance amidst fiscal constraints.
As the world watches the Moon turn into the next frontier of geopolitical rivalry, one thing is certain: the race to space is back—and this time, it’s nuclear-powered.
