Roscosmos Confirms Ongoing Russia–China Collaboration on Lunar Station
A New Phase in Russia–China Lunar Cooperation
The partnership for the Russia China Lunar station continues to deepen as Roscosmos CEO Dmitry Bakanov confirmed that both nations are actively progressing with the construction plans. Their joint efforts are centred on the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a long-term project meant to support scientific missions, technology testing, and eventually human activity on the Moon.
Russia and China Strengthen Space Ties Amid High-Level Diplomatic Engagement
Bakanov’s statement followed Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin’s two-day visit to China. During this visit, he met Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the 30th regular meeting of the heads of government of both nations. The two sides adopted a joint communiqué and signed multiple agreements, including a new roadmap on satellite navigation cooperation.
Background on the Latest Agreements
The Roscosmos chief highlighted that in May, during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Moscow, both countries formalised their cooperation by signing a key agreement related to Lunar infrastructure. This agreement accelerated joint implementation of projects focused on developing power stations and other essential systems for the ILRS.
Bakanov said the coordinated activities underline a strategic long-term partnership in space exploration and technological development.
ILRS Project Timeline — Not Five Years Old, But Launched in 2021
The International Lunar Research Station project was officially launched in March 2021, when Roscosmos and the China National Space Administration (CNSA) signed the founding declaration.
Why the Project Was Launched
Both nations intended to create a multinational alternative to the US-led Artemis programme. The ILRS was positioned as a long-term Lunar base for science, technology testing, and eventual human habitation.
Why News Is Emerging Again
This update resurfaced now due to:
- High-level Russia–China government meeting
- China preparing major south-pole missions (2026–2028)
- Russia needing to reaffirm commitment after Luna-25’s failure
- Progress on the ILRS power station agreement
This makes the announcement strategically timed and politically relevant.
What Has Been Achieved So Far — Progress Report
Despite slowed timelines on Russia’s side, ILRS has made structured progress since 2021.
Completed Steps (2021–2024)
- Joint framework and architectural plan approved
- Multiple cooperation MoUs signed
- Power station concept finalised
- International outreach expanded through BRICS and partner countries
Mission Development
China’s missions forming ILRS groundwork:
- Chang’e-6 (2024): Completed sample return from Lunar far side
- Chang’e-7 (~2026): Will survey water-ice at south pole
- Chang’e-8 (~2028): Will test 3D printing and construction technologies
Russia’s missions:
- Luna-25 (2023): Attempted landing; mission failed
- Luna-26 (~2027) and Luna-27 (~2028): Still planned but delayed
Despite setbacks, the ILRS structure remains intact due to China’s steady progress.
ILRS Power Station Plans Enter Implementation Phase
In May, Roscosmos and the China National Space Administration (CNSA) also signed a memorandum to build a power station for the International Lunar Research Station. This infrastructure will form the backbone of energy supply for future Lunar operations.
Purpose of the Power Station
According to Roscosmos, the station will:
- Support fundamental scientific research
- Provide energy for unmanned missions
- Enable testing of systems required for long-duration lunar operations
- Prepare infrastructure for potential human presence on the Moon
This technological foundation is essential for establishing a functional, resilient, and autonomous research base on the Lunar surface.
The Vision Behind the International Lunar Research Station
The Russia China Lunar station — known as the ILRS — is envisioned as a multinational research hub located at the Moon’s south pole. The long-term goal is to create an environment where scientific teams can operate in phases, eventually transitioning from robotic to human missions.
Strategic Importance of the ILRS
The ILRS project is designed to:
- Advance understanding of Lunar geology
- Test deep-space technologies
- Support sustainable exploration missions
- Provide a platform for future Mars-related research
In addition, joint participation ensures shared investment, risk distribution, and enhanced scientific output.
Russia and China Aim for Long-Term Lunar Presence
Roscosmos emphasised that the power station will support unmanned long-term operations, which are crucial for maintaining a continuous presence. These systems will also help verify technologies that ensure stability, energy security, and autonomy for Lunar missions.
Road to a Human Outpost
While the current phase focuses on essential infrastructure, the ILRS framework is designed to evolve into a permanent human-capable station. Its development is expected to shape global Lunar exploration trends and establish a new standard for multinational cooperation beyond Earth.
A Steady March Toward a Shared Lunar Future
With the Russia China Lunar station steadily taking shape, the ILRS stands out as one of the most ambitious Lunar projects of this decade. Through strategic agreements, technological collaboration, and sustained diplomatic engagement, both nations have demonstrated a long-term commitment to establishing a significant presence on the Moon. As implementation continues, the ILRS could redefine global space partnerships and open a new era in Lunar science.
