Archive · 29 May 2025
China, Russia Plan Moon Nuclear Plant; U.S. Program Faces Setbacks
China and Russia plan to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon by 2036.
This will power the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a joint project for a permanent base.
The project aims to use automated robots for construction.
The ILRS will begin with robotic assembly between 2030 and 2035.
Solar, radioisotope, and nuclear systems will provide power.
It's part of a plan to support Mars missions eventually.
This move comes as the U.S. Artemis program faces budget setbacks.
Other countries like Venezuela, Pakistan, and Egypt are also involved in the ILRS.
China and Russia will build a lunar nuclear power plant by 2036.
The power plant will support the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).
Robotic assembly of the ILRS is planned between 2030 and 2035.
The U.S. Artemis program faces potential budget cuts and delays.
17 countries have joined the ILRS initiative.
- Who
- China and Russia are collaborating on the project.
- What
- China and Russia are planning to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon.
- When
- Construction to be ready by 2036, robotic assembly between 2030 and 2035.
- Where
- The Moon.
- Why
- To power the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) and support long-duration lunar operations.
- Target Date for Nuclear Plant Completion
- 2036
- Project Partners
- China and Russia
- ILRS Goal
- Permanent outpost on the Moon's south pole
- Robotic Assembly Timeline
- 2030-2035
- Countries in ILRS Initiative
- 17