The United States, China and Russia are racing to develop nuclear reactors for the Moon as major powers prepare for longer-term lunar exploration and permanent bases. The reactors are expected to provide a reliable power source for astronauts, vehicles and other equipment, particularly during the Moon’s long periods of darkness.
NASA is targeting the deployment of a lunar nuclear reactor by December 2030. The proposed system is expected to generate around 20 kilowatts of electricity and operate for years without regular human intervention. The US sees nuclear power as a key technology for establishing a sustained presence on the Moon and supporting future missions deeper into space.
China and Russia are also pursuing a joint lunar nuclear power project. Their proposed reactor, known as Selena, is targeted for 2036. The system is expected to generate up to 10 kilowatts and operate autonomously for around a decade.
Nuclear power is considered important because lunar nights last more than two weeks, making solar power alone difficult to rely on for continuous operations. A reactor could provide steady electricity for habitats, scientific equipment and resource-extraction activities.
The emerging competition also raises safety and space-law questions. Scientists have warned that accidents during launches or reactor deployment could potentially spread radioactive material. Experts are also debating how safety zones around lunar nuclear facilities could affect access to the Moon.
The 1967 Outer Space Treaty prohibits countries from claiming the Moon as sovereign territory. However, the growing push for permanent lunar infrastructure is creating new questions over access, safety zones and the use of lunar resources.
The proposed reactors have not yet been deployed, and their timelines could change as technical, safety and regulatory challenges are addressed. If successful, nuclear power could become a key part of the infrastructure needed for a sustained human presence on the Moon.
