Russia is poised to contribute a compact nuclear power station and advanced technologies to support Elon Musk’s ambitious Mars mission, according to Kirill Dmitriev, President Vladimir Putin’s special economic representative.
Proposal from Moscow
Dmitriev, who has recently taken on the role of chief economic envoy in US-Russia discussions, initially proposed the idea of a joint mission to Mars in mid-March. During a press conference at the International Arctic Forum, he stated that Moscow could provide a range of technological capabilities for long-duration missions to the Red Planet.
“Russia can offer a small-scale nuclear power station for the Mars mission, along with other advanced technologies,” Dmitriev told RIA Novosti. “We believe that Russia has a lot to offer the Mars mission, because we possess nuclear technologies that could be applicable.”
Historical Significance and Collaboration
Dmitriev emphasized the potential involvement of Russia’s national nuclear energy company Rosatom and the space agency Roscosmos in enhancing the safety and efficiency of deep space missions. He also noted that 2025 would be a significant year to announce such an initiative, as it marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project—the first crewed international space mission between the US and the Soviet Union in July 1975.
While Elon Musk has not yet publicly responded to the proposal, Dmitriev expressed a willingness to hold a videoconference with Musk to discuss potential cooperation.
Improving US-Russia Relations
This renewed outreach from Moscow comes amid signs of improving relations between Washington and Moscow. Dmitriev participated in recent US-Russia talks held in Saudi Arabia, which resulted in an agreement to start restoring diplomatic and scientific cooperation across various sectors.
President Vladimir Putin has also mentioned that in discussions with US President Donald Trump, both sides had “agreed to work together in space.” Putin has voiced support for collaboration with Musk, indicating high-level backing for potential joint projects.
Musk’s Mars Ambitions
Earlier this month, Musk reaffirmed his goal to launch the first uncrewed Mars mission as early as 2026, with human landings potentially beginning in 2029. A prototype of the Starship, carrying a Tesla-developed humanoid robot, is expected to play a crucial role in the initial test phase.
Musk’s timeline for Mars includes launching the Starship at the end of next year. If the uncrewed landings are successful, human landings may commence as soon as 2029, although 2031 appears to be a more realistic target.
The Role of Nuclear Power in Space Exploration
Moscow’s proposal highlights the importance of stable energy sources for long-term space missions. Nuclear power has long been regarded as one of the most efficient methods for generating electricity in space, making Russia’s expertise particularly relevant for Musk’s ambitious goals.
Dmitriev described Musk as a „great visionary” and framed Russia’s offer as a mutually beneficial opportunity. However, this proposal occurs at a time when Moscow seeks to alleviate the economic pressures resulting from international sanctions.
As Musk continues to push forward with his Mars ambitions, he faces challenges on Earth as well. Activist movements targeting Tesla, like „Tesla Takedown,” have emerged, protesting alleged ties between Musk and the Trump administration.
Despite these challenges, Musk remains focused on his vision for Mars, which includes plans to establish a self-sustaining city on the Red Planet within the next two decades, contingent on successful missions and energy solutions.
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Embedded Media
Starship departs for Mars at the end of next year, carrying Optimus. If those landings go well, then human landings may start as soon as 2029, although 2031 is more likely. https://t.co/JRBB95sgNN
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 15, 2025
