Yuri Borisov, head of the Russian space agency, has announced plans to explore the development of a nuclear power station on the moon's surface between 2033 and 2035, in collaboration with China.
Moscow and Beijing have been working on a lunar exploration program, with Russia contributing its expertise in space nuclear power.
Borisov stated, "We are seriously considering a project that could commence by the beginning of 2033, involving the delivery and installation of a power unit on the moon's surface in cooperation with our Chinese colleagues."
He highlighted the limitations of solar panels in providing sufficient electricity for future lunar settlements, pointing out the potential of nuclear power in this context.
Borisov described the ambitious project as a "very serious challenge" that needs to be undertaken autonomously, without human presence.
He also revealed Russian plans to build a nuclear-powered cargo spacecraft, mentioning that all technical issues have been resolved except for finding a solution for cooling the nuclear reactor.
Moscow has previously declared ambitious plans for lunar mining, although its space program has faced setbacks in recent years.
Last year, Russia's first lunar mission in 47 years, "Luna-25," failed after the spacecraft lost control and crashed.
Moscow has expressed intentions to launch more lunar missions to explore the possibility of a joint Russian-Chinese manned mission and even a lunar base.
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