Russia plans to build its first lunar nuclear power plant around 2035 to supply energy for extraterrestrial research bases

Recently, Alexey Likhachev, CEO of Rosatom, stated during a visit to the Atomic Museum at the All-Russian Exhibition Center (VDNKh) that Russia plans to build its first nuclear power plant on the lunar surface before the mid-2030s (around 2035), to provide stable electricity for future lunar bases and research facilities.

It is understood that this lunar nuclear power plant will become the core energy hub for future extraterrestrial space stations and deep space exploration infrastructure. Roscosmos signed a formal contract with the Lavochkin Association in December 2025, fully launching the development and construction of the lunar power station. The project is jointly advanced by Roscosmos, Rosatom, and the Kurchatov Institute, aiming to provide continuous and reliable power supply for future lunar rovers, lunar surface observatories, and the infrastructure of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).

In terms of engineering implementation and technical pathways, the project includes not only the research and development of spacecraft and nuclear reactor systems, but also complex flight tests and automated deployment in the lunar surface environment. The completion of the lunar power station will mark the transformation of extraterrestrial exploration missions from single short-term expeditions to long-term sustainably operating scientific infrastructure.

It is reported that in addition to the lunar nuclear power plant project, Russia is also actively advancing supporting technology research and development, such as testing advanced hardware including the domestically produced Elbrus processors aboard the Soyuz-5 launch vehicle. Industry analysis points out that given the long lunar nights and extremely cold environment, nuclear energy is the most feasible energy solution for ensuring the operation of long-duration scientific research and living facilities on the lunar surface. Russia's move will lay a solid energy foundation for its participation in future extraterrestrial space development and the construction of the International Lunar Research Station.