China plans to construct a nuclear power station on the moon’s surface

China has announced exciting plans to build a nuclear power plant on the moon.

This project aims to support a permanent research station that China is developing in partnership with Russia. The idea may sound like science fiction, but it is becoming a reality.

China plans to construct a nuclear power station on the moon’s surface
During a recent presentation in Shanghai, scientists shared detailed plans for the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). This station will serve as a base for astronauts and researchers.

China reveals plans for a nuclear power plant on the Moon for lunar research. Image Credit: Getty

The goal is to have it completed by 2035. China also plans to land astronauts on the moon within the next five years, with a mission called Chang’e-8 set for 2028. This mission will help lay the groundwork for the lunar base.

The development of a nuclear power plant on the moon could provide a reliable energy source for the ILRS.

This plan shows that China is seriously competing with the United States, as both countries aim to have astronauts living and working on the moon. Nuclear energy could play a key role in powering research and missions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping. Image Credit: Getty

China aims to compete with U.S. space initiatives.
China’s ambitions in space are clear. By aiming for a permanent base on the moon, the country is not just looking to explore. It wants to establish a lasting presence. The plans for nuclear power show that China is thinking ahead about energy needs.

They are not alone in this endeavor, as Russia is a key partner. During the presentation, Pei Zhaoyu, the Chief Engineer for 2028 mission, discussed how the lunar base will get its energy.

China targets 2035 for completing the International Lunar Research Station with Russia’s partnership. Image Credit: Getty

He mentioned that large solar arrays, pipelines, and cables could also be used. This combination of energy sources could ensure that the base remains operational and efficient.

Russia supports plans for a lunar nuclear reactor.
Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos, has expressed support for the idea of building a nuclear reactor on the moon. They aim to have this reactor completed by 2035, working alongside China’s space agency, the China National Space Administration (CNSA).

Wu Weiren, who is the chief designer of China’s lunar exploration program, emphasized the importance of power supply for the ILRS.

“An important question for the ILRS is power supply, and in this Russia has a natural advantage, when it comes to nuclear power plants, especially sending them into space, it leads the world, it is ahead of the United States,” Wu Weiren, chief designer of China’s lunar exploration program, said to Reuters at the conference.

China and Russia’s space collaboration aims for a reliable energy source on the Moon. Image Credit: Getty

Cargo space ship development progresses with innovative technology.
In addition to the lunar power plant, Beijing and Moscow are working on a nuclear-powered cargo spaceship. This innovative vehicle has been described as a “space tugboat.”

It will be capable of transporting large cargoes between orbits and collecting space debris.

Yury Borisov, the former head of Roscosmos, mentioned that this ship would use a nuclear reactor and high-power turbines for its operations. The potential applications of this cargo ship are vast.

It could play a crucial role in future missions and help maintain a clean environment in space. This project is another example of how both countries are pushing the boundaries of space technology.