China & Russia’s Plan for a Nuclear Power Plant on the Moon

🌌 INTERNATIONAL

April 28, 2025
Thematic Focus: Space Diplomacy | Energy Innovation | GS Paper 2 & 3

🕊️ Intro Whisper:

As nations race to the Moon, power must flow not just through rockets — but through reactors.

🔹 Key Highlights: China & Russia’s Plan for a Nuclear Power Plant on the Moon

• China–Russia collaboration to establish nuclear reactor on the Moon.
• Part of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) initiative.
• Goals: long-term human presence, scientific research, and Mars prep.
• ILRS Timeline:
  • Announced: 2021
  • Chang’e-8 Mission: 2028
  • First phase completion: 2035 (lunar south pole)
  • Expansion: 2050
• Power Sources Under Study:
  • Solar
  • Radioisotope generators
  • Nuclear power
  • Russia to contribute advanced nuclear technology for energy stability.
• Communication Infrastructure:
  • High-speed Moon–Earth data systems
  • Core for future autonomous mission support

🧭 Concept Explainer:

The Moon, once a geopolitical trophy, is becoming a laboratory of global ambition. The ILRS represents a non-Western lunar consortium, balancing NASA’s Artemis Programme with its collaborative, multi-nation model. Nuclear power brings reliability in the Moon’s harsh climate, a necessity for deep space continuity.

This race isn’t just about planting flags — it’s about planting infrastructure for the next century of exploration.

🧾 GS Mapping:

• GS Paper 2: International Cooperation | Tech Diplomacy | Global Commons
• GS Paper 3: Nuclear Technology | Energy Security | Space Innovation

💠 A Thought Spark — by IAS Monk:

“When the Moon lights up with reactors and research, Earth’s boundaries begin to fade.”