Rosatom is currently evaluating five distinct technical designs for a compact nuclear power plant intended for lunar operations. The state corporation plans to finalize the chosen design in 2027 to proceed with further development phases. This initiative involves collaboration with the Kurchatov Institute and the Russian Academy of Sciences.
The proposed autonomous power station aims to deliver up to 10 kW of energy. It is scheduled to become operational by the mid-2030s to support the international lunar station. Engineers are considering various approaches, including systems that convert nuclear energy directly into electricity and units equipped with turbine generators.
Additionally, Rosatom is developing a high-power engine for a space tug designed to transport heavy payloads and facilitate deep space missions. The engine is expected to reach a power output of one megawatt. The project involves federal nuclear centers located in Sarov and Snezhinsk, with the engine slated for operation in the next decade.
