Russia’s space program has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a dedicated power plant on the lunar surface, a critical infrastructure project designed to support long-term human and robotic operations on the Moon. According to a detailed report, this lunar-based energy facility is deemed essential for providing a continuous power supply to key assets, including robotic lunar rovers, astronomical observatories, and various infrastructure components of a future international lunar scientific station.
The comprehensive initiative extends beyond power generation, encompassing the development of specialized spacecraft required for lunar transportation and construction. The project roadmap includes multiple phases: the engineering and manufacturing of new spacecraft, rigorous flight testing protocols, extensive experimental ground tests, and the eventual deployment of operational infrastructure directly on the lunar terrain.
Officials emphasized that this endeavor represents a significant strategic shift in space exploration methodology. Rather than pursuing isolated, short-duration missions, the project aims to establish the foundational elements necessary for a permanently inhabited lunar scientific outpost. This transition marks a pivotal step toward sustained human presence and research activities on the Moon, with the infrastructure explicitly designed to accommodate collaboration with international partners and foreign scientific projects.