Izvestia newspaper reported that Russian scientists have just announced an ambitious plan: Deploying a nuclear power module to the Moon in 2036, to provide energy for extraterrestrial bases and spacecraft in the future.
Information was released at the Russian Space Forum recently, where experts from the Kurchatov Institute said that this project could become the "key" to help humanity go further in exploring deep space.
How does the nuclear power plant on the Moon work?
According to the plan, the energy module will operate based on the principle of direct conversion of nuclear energy into electricity, with a capacity of about 5 kW and a lifespan of about 5 years. After that, the system will be replaced with a new version to maintain continuous operation.
The device is expected to be about 3.5 x 3.5m in size and weigh 1.5 tons. The prototype will be completed before 2032 for ground testing, before being jointly put on the Moon by the Russian Aerospace Corporation Roscosmos.
Scientists emphasize that energy is a decisive factor in conquering space. When no longer dependent on supplies from Earth, extraterrestrial bases can operate independently for a long time.
A notable point is the efficiency of nuclear fuel: Only 1kg of uranium can generate energy equivalent to 20,000 tons of coal, enough to maintain the technical infrastructure on the Moon for many years.
Will spacecraft "escape dependence" on Earth?
Not only stopping at the Moon, nuclear technology also opens up a turning point for spacecraft engines. Instead of using chemical fuel, new engines will use nuclear reactors to heat liquids such as hydrogen, creating stronger and more efficient thrust.
According to experts, this type of engine can significantly shorten interplanetary flight time. Flights to Pluto - which take many years with current technology - may only take 2-4 months.
In particular, future spacecraft can use available resources such as water on the Moon or other celestial bodies as "fuel", thereby completely reducing dependence on Earth.
The space race enters a new phase
Experts believe that the country that builds an extraterrestrial energy supply system first will have a great advantage in the space race. Not only serving research, these technologies can also open up long-term bases and space transport corridors.
Besides the energy project, Russia is also promoting a series of other plans such as the reusable Amur-LNG missile, expected to be tested in 2028, and the Start-1M light missile, which may be launched for the first time in 2027.
A new Russian space station is also planned to be deployed from 2028, along with the expansion of the GLONASS global positioning system and strengthening international cooperation.
Observers believe that developing independent energy sources in space is not only a technological step forward, but also reshaping how humans access the universe. When the energy problem is solved, further missions - even to extrasolar planets - may no longer be fiction.
