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1. The Announcement That Shocked the World
A Shanghai Presentation Sparks Global Headlines
At a major conference in Shanghai in early 2025, China revealed its plans to build a long-term research station on the Moon, known as the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).Just like naval bases once shaped the power and reach of old-world empires, future space civilizations could be defined by who controls bases on the Moon. The event featured international delegates, engineers, and scientists, but the real headline-grabber was a presentation by Pei Zhaoyu, Chief Engineer of China’s lunar mission. He confirmed that the ILRS would not rely solely on solar power; instead, it would include a nuclear reactor to ensure stable, long-term energy on the Moon.
This announcement wasn’t just a technical update—it was a statement of intent. China, in partnership with Russia, was preparing to take the Moon seriously—not just for exploration, but for permanent habitation and development.
2. Why Build a Nuclear Reactor on the Moon?
The Limitations of Solar Power
The Moon experiences extreme environmental conditions. Day and night cycles last approximately 14 Earth days, meaning that solar power is only available half the time. Lunar nights are frigid, with temperatures dropping to -173°C (-280°F), making it nearly impossible to rely on solar energy for uninterrupted power.
Advantages of Nuclear Energy in Space
Nuclear reactors offer a constant, high-output energy source. Unlike solar panels, which are dependent on light, nuclear power can run continuously, providing a reliable supply of electricity, heat, and propulsion capabilities.
A nuclear reactor on the Moon could:
- Power scientific laboratories and research modules
- Support human life with heating and electricity
- Enable in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), such as extracting water ice and producing oxygen
- Facilitate manufacturing and 3D printing using lunar materials
- Support advanced communication systems and navigation equipment
3. The International Lunar Research Station : Let’s Take a Deeper Look
Concept and Vision
The ILRS is a proposed multi-nation lunar base designed to host both robotic and human missions. Its goal is to serve as a scientific outpost, a resource utilization site, and eventually, a hub for deeper space exploration.
Timeline and Milestones
- 2026-2028: Robotic construction missions to deliver parts of the base
- 2028-2030: Putting together the essentials on the Moon’s surface—like living quarters, solar panels, and communication systems.
- 2030-2035: Deployment of the nuclear reactor and full operation of the ILRS
- Post-2035: Permanent human presence and expansion
4. Russia’s Role and Nuclear Expertise
Roscosmos and Nuclear Propulsion
Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency, has been working with nuclear technology for decades and brings a lot of expertise to the table. The Soviet Union was a pioneer in nuclear-powered satellites and reactors in space, having launched several reactors aboard spacecraft in the 1960s through 1980s.
While speaking at the Shanghai conference, Wu Weiren—China’s top lunar program designer—commended Russia for being ahead of the curve in nuclear space technology. He highlighted that Russia’s experience gives them a “natural advantage” in powering off-Earth habitats.
The ‘Cyclopean Tugboat’
Former Roscosmos head Yury Borisov revealed that Russia is also developing a nuclear-powered cargo spacecraft—nicknamed the “space tugboat.” This giant ship, powered by a nuclear reactor and high-thrust turbines, is designed to:
- Transport heavy cargo across lunar orbits
- Move modules for lunar bases
- Remove space debris from Earth orbit
- Provide orbital refueling or towing services
5. How the Reactor Will Work on the Moon
Reactor Type and Technology
Although specific reactor designs have not been disclosed, experts speculate that the Moon-based reactor could be a small modular reactor (SMR), weighing under 10 tons and designed for deployment in hostile environments.
Key design criteria:
- Shielding: Protection from radiation for nearby astronauts and equipment
- Thermal control: Managing heat without relying on Earth’s atmosphere
- Autonomous control: Limited human intervention due to time delays and risks
- Redundancy: Multiple failsafe systems to prevent meltdown
Installation and Maintenance
The reactor would likely be buried under lunar regolith (soil) to provide natural radiation shielding. It would be delivered using robotic landers, with initial assembly performed by autonomous rovers before human crews arrive.
