International Collaboration on Lunar Energy

Russia and China are joining forces to develop a nuclear power plant for future lunar settlements, according to a recent TASS report. Spearheaded by Russia’s state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, the project aims to deploy a compact nuclear reactor on the Moon capable of generating up to half a megawatt of power.

Potential Indian Partnership

Rosatom’s chief, Alexey Likhachev, revealed that India might also participate in this groundbreaking venture. The initiative is designed to provide a reliable energy source for lunar habitats, surpassing solar power’s limitations during the Moon’s extended night periods. India’s involvement remains unconfirmed, and no official statements have been made by the Indian government or the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Strategic and Technological Considerations

The project aligns with broader international space ambitions, following a 2021 agreement between Roscosmos and China’s CNSA to create the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). Initial missions are set to commence in 2026, with the goal of a completed station by 2028. India’s participation would require diplomatic alignment, financial investment, and technological collaboration. Russia plans to deploy the reactor by 2036, while India targets a lunar base by 2050, indicating potential for future joint efforts in space exploration.