Russia and China have formally agreed to collaborate on constructing an automated nuclear power station on the Moon, targeting completion by 2035. The deal, signed earlier this month by Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency, and the China National Space Administration (CNSA), marks a significant step in the two nations’ joint lunar ambitions.
The nuclear station will be integrated into the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) — a joint project announced in 2017. The ILRS aims to establish a long-term robotic and human presence on the Moon, with the facility expected to be located within 100 kilometers of the lunar south pole.
According to a statement by Roscosmos, the new nuclear station will support fundamental space research and test technologies required for long-duration unmanned operations. It is also intended to pave the way for eventual human missions to the Moon.
In addition to China and Russia, the ILRS project includes participation from several other countries, including Venezuela, Belarus, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Egypt, Nicaragua, Thailand, Serbia, Pakistan, Senegal, and Kazakhstan.
Yuri Borisov, head of Roscosmos, previously confirmed that a nuclear-powered cargo spacecraft — described as a “space tugboat” — is under development. The system is expected to transport large payloads between orbits, collect space debris, and perform other orbital tasks. While most technical hurdles have been addressed, thermal management for the nuclear reactor remains a critical challenge.
The announcement coincides with NASA’s proposed 2026 budget, which includes the cancellation of the Gateway lunar orbital station, originally planned for a 2027 launch. NASA is also reportedly evaluating the future of its over-budget Space Launch System (SLS) after its third Artemis mission, raising concerns about the US’s ability to keep pace with its global rivals.