The space race is entering a new phase. And this time, it’s not just about planting flags – it’s about powering the future. 

In late April, China and Russia announced plans to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon by 2035. The goal is to power a permanent lunar research station – the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). It’s designed to enable sustained activity on the Moon, with the nuclear facility supplementing solar-energy sources. 

You see, the moon experiences two-week-long nights – meaning there’s two weeks of continuous sunlight followed by two weeks of continuous darkness. The nuclear power plant will be essential for providing reliable energy during the Moon’s two-week-long nights. 

The collaboration between China and Russia signifies a strategic move to establish a foothold in lunar exploration and utilization. By combining their expertise, the two nations plan to construct the ILRS at the Moon’s south pole, a region that’s rich in water-based ice and other valuable resources. 

This development also highlights the growing competition with the United States, which plans to land astronauts on the Moon by 2027 under NASA’s Artemis program. The U.S. aims to use the lunar surface for future Mars missions, potentially utilizing nuclear power as well. 

Where the Real Opportunity Lies

For investors, this renewed focus on lunar exploration opens up a lot of new opportunities – especially in sectors like aerospace, nuclear energy, and advanced robotics. Companies involved in space technology, energy solutions, and international collaborations stand to benefit from the advancements and investments in this arena.

As the world watches these developments unfold, it’s clear the Moon is becoming more than just a celestial body – it’s the next frontier for innovation, competition, and investment.

This is an exciting time for nuclear energy. So stay tuned for more insights. I’ll continue to monitor the evolving landscape of space exploration and its implications for the market.

Here’s to the future, 

Matt McCallEditor, Market Insights