Russia to build nuclear plant on Moon to beat 336-hour-night blackout

Russia plans to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon within the next decade to support its lunar program and a joint Russian-Chinese research station aimed at future deep-space missions. Confirmed by Roscosmos, the state space agency, the plant would provide continuous energy to power surface infrastructure such as rovers, scientific instruments, and the International Lunar Research Station. This initiative addresses the challenge of the Moon’s 336-hour-long night, which limits solar power availability, by offering a reliable energy source unaffected by lighting conditions, temperature extremes, or dust accumulation. The project, targeted for completion by 2036, involves collaboration with the Lavochkin Association, Rosatom (Russia’s nuclear corporation), and the Kurchatov Institute, highlighting Russia’s integrated approach to lunar exploration. Roscosmos emphasizes that this nuclear power plant is a critical step toward establishing a permanent lunar scientific station and transitioning from short-term missions to sustained lunar presence. Additionally, Roscosmos chief Dmitry Bakanov framed the lunar