China signs deal with Russia to build a power plant on the moon — potentially leaving the US in the dust

BLUF

Located at the lunar south pole region, the largely autonomously constructed reactor is planned for completion in 2036- part of the International Lunar Research Station. The Trump administration's 2026 budget cancels NASA's planned lunar space station.

Learning Outcomes
• Understand how international collaboration influences capability development — the article highlights China and Russia’s joint lunar mission and its broader strategic implications.
• Examine how global technological competition shapes decision-making — it contrasts rising lunar ambition with US program cutbacks, prompting reflection on long-term priorities.