NASA and Roscosmos race to build the Moon's first nuclear power stations by 2030s

The Moon is set to become a new frontier for nuclear energy as both NASA and Roscosmos push forward with plans for lunar power stations. The US space agency aims to have its own reactor running by early 2030, while Russia targets 2036 for a larger-scale facility. These projects signal a growing race to establish sustainable infrastructure for long-term lunar missions.

NASA's proposal involves deploying a compact nuclear reactor, known as the Kilopower system, designed to provide around 10 kilowatts of electricity. This power source would support a future US lunar base, supplying energy for habitats, rovers, and scientific equipment. The agency has set a deadline of the first quarter of fiscal year 2030 to bring the reactor online.

Russia's space corporation, Roscosmos, has commissioned Lavochkin—a key aerospace manufacturer—to lead the development of its lunar power station. The project involves collaboration with Rosatom, the state nuclear energy corporation, and the Kurchatov Institute, a leading nuclear research centre. Unlike NASA's smaller-scale design, Roscosmos has discussed concepts for a multi-megawatt facility, though technical details remain in early stages. The push for lunar nuclear power comes as both nations recognise the Moon's potential resources. Its surface is believed to contain up to one million tons of helium-3, a rare isotope that could fuel future nuclear fusion reactors. Additionally, the Moon holds deposits of rare earth elements—such as scandium, yttrium, and 15 lanthanides—critical for advanced technologies. These materials could reduce reliance on Earth-based mining. Russia's ambitions follow a recent setback: the crash of its uncrewed Luna-25 probe in August 2023, which highlighted challenges in its lunar programme. Despite this, the country remains determined to reclaim its historical dominance in space exploration. International regulations already allow nuclear power sources in space, provided they meet strict safety and environmental standards. As of early 2026, neither NASA nor Roscosmos has finalised engineering plans or exact deployment timelines. Both agencies continue to refine their designs, with NASA's reactor intended for initial lunar bases and Roscosmos eyeing a broader energy network for future infrastructure.

The planned lunar reactors would provide reliable electricity for rovers, observatories, and research stations, including the proposed International Lunar Research Station. With both NASA and Roscosmos advancing their projects, the next decade could see the Moon's first operational nuclear power plants. These developments mark a critical step toward establishing permanent human presence beyond Earth.