Moscow (Agencies): Thirteen countries, including BRICS members, have officially joined Russia and China in the ambitious endeavor to develop the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), according to Dmitry Bakanov, Director General of Roscosmos, Russia’s state space corporation.
Bakanov, addressing BRICS space agency leaders, highlighted the involvement of nations such as Belarus, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Venezuela, Thailand, Serbia, Nicaragua, Senegal, Djibouti, Bolivia, and BRICS partners Egypt, Ethiopia, and South Africa. He emphasized Russia’s unparalleled expertise in Venus exploration, lunar technology, and Martian research, describing these advancements as the foundation for future BRICS-led space initiatives.
China, India, and the UAE’s successful Mars missions and lunar exploration capabilities were also acknowledged, with Bakanov expressing optimism about enhanced cooperation. He underlined that joint space projects could lead to improved scientific outcomes and cost-effective approaches.
The Roscosmos chief revealed plans to launch six automatic spacecraft for lunar research, including the Luna-26 and Luna-29 orbiters, as well as several landing vehicles: Luna-27 No. 1 and No. 2, Luna-28, and Luna-30. These missions aim to conduct both remote and direct studies of the Moon’s surface.
Furthermore, Bakanov stressed the importance of workforce development in space exploration. He mentioned over 85,000 students from BRICS nations, including significant numbers from China and India, currently enrolled in Russian universities. He called for enhanced collaboration on student programs, hoping to shape the next generation of space experts.
The initiative marks a significant milestone in international cooperation, heralding new opportunities for lunar exploration and deep-space research.