Should Humanity Build Nuclear Reactors on the Moon?

Elon Musk: 

“Look, if we’re serious about becoming a multi-planetary species, we can’t rely on solar panels and good vibes. The Moon isn’t Earth—it’s got two-week nights, extreme temperature swings, and no atmosphere. If we want to have any meaningful presence there—whether it’s science, industry, or even a stepping stone to Mars—we’re going to need reliable, uninterrupted power. And that means nuclear.

Now, people hear ‘nuclear’ and they think fallout and mushroom clouds. But we’re not talking about Cold War tech. We’re talking next-gen microreactors: self-contained, safe, efficient, and built to run for years without maintenance. This is about progress. It’s about survival. And honestly—it’s inevitable. The only question is: Will we build it wisely? Or let fear stall us in low Earth orbit forever?

(Note: This is an imaginary conversation, a creative exploration of an idea, and not a real speech or event.) 

Should Humanity Build Nuclear Reactors on the Moon?

Moderator: Jeffrey Sachs
Guests: Elon Musk, Yury Borisov, Michio Kaku, Vandana Shiva

Scene:

A roundtable set inside a high-tech dome on a simulated lunar environment stage. A massive Earth hologram floats above. The panelists sit in a soft blue glow. The energy feels tense, visionary, and historical.

Jeffrey Sachs (Moderator):

“We begin with a simple but profound question: Do we have the right to build a nuclear reactor on the Moon? Elon, I’ll start with you.”

Elon Musk:

“The right question isn't whether we can build it—but whether we must. Solar power has limitations on the Moon. During the 14-day lunar night, you're dead in the water unless you store insane amounts of energy. A small, efficient nuclear reactor could unlock permanent settlement. If we want to make life multiplanetary, we need reliable power. This is physics, not politics.”

Yury Borisov (Roscosmos Director):

“Elon is correct on the technical side, but this is not about colonization. Russia and China see the Moon not as territory, but as infrastructure. A scientific base needs power 24/7. A reactor is not a weapon—it is a generator. We are building it under international cooperation. The West isolates, we include.”

Vandana Shiva:

“That word—infrastructure—is revealing. You speak of the Moon as empty real estate. But what if it is sacred? Just because there’s no visible life does not mean there is no ecology. On Earth, nuclear energy has left scars—from Chernobyl to Fukushima. Are we so arrogant to believe we won’t repeat that history—this time on a celestial body?”

Michio Kaku:

“I love where this is going. Let’s not forget: building a nuclear reactor on the Moon is both a scientific milestone and a political minefield. Technically, we can miniaturize and shield reactors well. But the governance model is missing. What happens when nations disagree on safety thresholds? Who responds if radiation leaks into future lunar settlements or robotic explorers?”

Jeffrey Sachs:

"That brings us to our second question: What international framework is needed to ensure safety, equity, and peace in lunar energy development?"

Elon Musk:

“I actually think this is where AI and blockchain governance could help. No country should ‘own’ lunar energy, but we can build shared protocols and AI-managed safety systems. Transparency matters more than nationality.”

Yury Borisov:

“There are already agreements—the 1979 Moon Agreement, for example. But the U.S. never signed it. We need new frameworks. Perhaps something like a Lunar Energy Council. Joint inspections. Equal access to research outputs. This is the path we propose.”

Vandana Shiva:

“Don’t mistake treaties for trust. You cannot separate technology from ethics. If nuclear energy becomes the default for every mission, what precedent are we setting? Wouldn’t it be wiser to invest in solar-hybrid alternatives or even biological systems that regenerate? We talk of the Moon as the future—but forget the Earth we’re still failing.”

Michio Kaku:

“There’s a deeper irony here. The Moon has no atmosphere, no biosphere, and no oil. It could become a place where humanity learns to cooperate without exploitation. But that requires treating the Moon not as a backup planet, but as a proving ground for peaceful civilization-building. That’s the real ‘test’ of nuclear technology—not just whether it works, but whether we deserve to wield it.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“And finally: What message do we send to future generations by how we power the Moon?”

Elon Musk:

“We send a message that humanity didn’t stop at limits—we transcended them. We did what was hard, but necessary.”

Yury Borisov:

“We send a message of global cooperation, one reactor powering many dreams.”

Vandana Shiva:

“Or we send a warning: that we could build anything—but forgot to ask why.”

Michio Kaku:

“Let’s make the Moon a second chance. Not to escape Earth, but to evolve from it.”

Closing Reflections by Jeffrey Sachs (Final Thoughts)

“This conversation reminds us that the Moon is not just a rock—it is a mirror. It reflects back our values, our fears, our ambitions. A nuclear reactor on the Moon may be a symbol of progress—or a symbol of hubris. What we choose to build there tells a story about what we value here.

Let that story be one of wisdom, not just wonder.”

Space Without Borders — Can China and Russia Lead a Peaceful Moon Mission?

Moderator: Jeffrey Sachs
Guests: Xiang Liu (Chief Lunar Architect, CNSA), Dmitry Rogozin (former Roscosmos Chief), Samantha Power (US diplomat), Carl Bildt (former Prime Minister of Sweden)

Scene:

Inside a futuristic Earth-orbit conference pod, suspended above the atmosphere. Windows show a rotating view of Earth and Moon. An international audience watches virtually. Tension is subtle but palpable.

Jeffrey Sachs (Moderator):

“We now confront a deeper question—one not of science, but of trust: Can the China-Russia alliance offer a peaceful and inclusive path to lunar exploration? Or are we watching the dawn of a new space bipolarity? Mr. Liu, please begin.”

Xiang Liu (CNSA):

“The International Lunar Research Station is not a weapon, it is a workshop. Our vision is simple: a scientific base, powered sustainably, shared openly. Yes, it began with China and Russia, but today, 13 nations are involved. And we welcome more. The Moon is not about dominance—it is about dignity.”

Dmitry Rogozin:

“We have to be honest—trust in Western-led space alliances has eroded. After sanctions and exclusions, do you expect us to sit still while Artemis locks down the Moon’s resources? ILRS is not a threat—it’s an alternative. We bring a spirit of sovereignty, yes, but also of mutual respect.”

Samantha Power:

“Respect must begin with transparency. The Artemis Accords are open, non-binding, and focused on peaceful exploration. ILRS, however, lacks clear legal safeguards. Nuclear reactors? Dual-use technologies? If we want peace in space, we need accountability on Earth. Cooperation cannot be a smokescreen for strategic encirclement.”

Carl Bildt:

“This is not Cold War 2.0, but perhaps it is ‘Cold Space 1.0.’ We need multilateralism—true multilateralism. Let’s not divide the Moon into exclusive zones of interest. Instead, let’s build what the UN once envisioned: a Moon Commons, regulated not by blocs, but by principles.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“Let’s go deeper. How can we ensure shared governance of lunar missions—without triggering geopolitical tension?”

Xiang Liu:

“Create a Lunar Assembly. Just like the General Assembly at the UN. One seat per nation, decisions by consensus. No vetoes. No monopolies. Let the Moon be ruled by science and shared purpose.”

Dmitry Rogozin:

“But the West must stop acting as if it owns space law. We were kept out of ISS updates. NASA coordinates with ESA, JAXA, and others—yet freezes out CNSA. Trust is built with reciprocity. A shared lunar framework must reflect all voices—not just those who claim to write the rules.”

Samantha Power:

“We cannot afford naïveté. A peaceful Moon must not be a cover for shadow agendas. Surveillance tools, quantum communication networks, even mining rights—these are serious. The U.S. is not against cooperation, but we must not walk blindfolded into strategic entanglement.”

Carl Bildt:

“I propose a Lunar Convention—binding, enforceable, with scientific, commercial, and ethical chapters. Let private actors participate too. This is not 1967 anymore. The Outer Space Treaty needs a younger sibling—one born of today’s global complexities.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“And finally, let’s ask: What legacy do we want our first permanent lunar base to leave behind? Not just technologically—but morally?”

Xiang Liu:

“I want children from all nations to look up and know: We did this together. Let the Moon reflect humanity’s unity—not its rivalry.”

Dmitry Rogozin:

“We leave a message: you cannot isolate nations forever. Innovation thrives where sovereignty is respected.”

Samantha Power:

“I hope we leave behind humility. That even in space, we learned how to share. And how to listen.”

Carl Bildt:

“Let our footprints on the Moon be those of cooperation—not competition. That would be the mark of a mature species.”

Closing Reflections by Jeffrey Sachs

“This conversation has revealed both the possibility—and fragility—of peace in space. If we let suspicion guide our missions, we may repeat the worst of Earthly politics. But if we lead with inclusion, transparency, and shared vision, the Moon may yet become the first territory truly governed by conscience, not conquest.

The question remains—do we have the will to make it so?”

Moonshots and Mistrust — Are We Witnessing a Divided Future in Space?

Moderator: Jeffrey Sachs
Guests: Bill Nelson (NASA Administrator), Jean-Jacques Dordain (former ESA Director-General), Wu Weiren (Chief Designer, CNSA Lunar Missions), Richard Branson (Founder, Virgin Galactic)

Scene:

A sleek lunar strategy forum, broadcast live in hologram across Earth. Behind the guests, a split-screen visual of the ILRS and Artemis programs looms large—two very different visions of the Moon’s future. The conversation begins under high diplomatic tension.

Jeffrey Sachs (Moderator):

“Our question today is provocative but urgent: Are we heading into a new era of space innovation—or just a new era of ideological rivalry? Are Artemis and ILRS complementary moonshots—or the beginning of a celestial Cold War? Administrator Nelson, we begin with you.”

Bill Nelson (NASA):

“Artemis is about leadership through partnership. It’s not exclusionary—it’s open. We’ve signed the Artemis Accords with over 30 nations. We're not racing anyone. We’re building a framework where safety, sustainability, and transparency are non-negotiable. If others want to lead, they must play by those rules.”

Wu Weiren (CNSA):

“‘Rules’ must not be written by one side. ILRS is not a reaction—it is a vision. A peaceful, scientifically driven, multipolar base that reflects new global realities. China does not seek confrontation, but we will not be dictated to. Our model values cooperation—just not under coercion.”

Jean-Jacques Dordain:

“Both missions are achievements. But the risk is clear: parallel governance. What happens when we find helium-3 or rare minerals on overlapping zones? Who arbitrates? We need convergence—not just competition. A united lunar council—perhaps modeled after CERN—could prevent escalation.”

Richard Branson:

“Let’s not forget: space is also business. Competition is healthy—it brings down costs, drives innovation. But we can’t have a Moon divided by walls. Let’s race to build together. Imagine if Artemis builds the roads, and ILRS builds the stations. We win by building infrastructure that benefits everyone.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“So here’s the next big question: Are separate space blocs inevitable—or can we still build one inclusive lunar strategy?”

Bill Nelson:

“I’m an optimist. Even during the Cold War, we built the ISS together. There’s room on the Moon. But we need guardrails—transparency, open data, shared rescue protocols. If China and Russia won’t join the Artemis framework, they should propose something equally binding and accountable.”

Wu Weiren:

“China has never closed the door. But we ask for mutual respect. When CNSA invited ESA and others to ILRS discussions, some were pressured not to participate. We must avoid politicizing the Moon. Let us focus on scientific goals: environmental sensing, ice drilling, and in-situ manufacturing.”

Jean-Jacques Dordain:

“The European approach has always been bridge-building. Europe can serve as a translator between these visions. But we must act fast—before divergence becomes doctrine. Let’s agree on joint lunar mapping, open-source data, and shared protocols for emergencies.”

Richard Branson:

“I’d like to see a ‘Moon Code’—a universal agreement written not just by governments, but by scientists, entrepreneurs, and civil society. The Moon shouldn’t be a chessboard. It should be a canvas for the best of what we can imagine together.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“And finally: What is the one principle that should guide humanity’s next 50 years in space?"

Bill Nelson:

“Responsibility. We must act with foresight, so our children don’t inherit a weaponized sky.”

Wu Weiren:

“Mutualism. The Moon belongs to none—but can benefit all.”

Jean-Jacques Dordain:

“Unity. The stars are above politics, and so should we be.”

Richard Branson:

“Boldness—with kindness. Let’s dream big, but never alone.”

Closing Reflections by Jeffrey Sachs

“What we’ve seen today is not just disagreement—but a yearning for alignment. Space need not mirror our Earthly divisions. The Moon is vast, silent, and untouched—but our decisions now will echo for centuries. Whether we meet there as partners or rivals depends not on rockets, but on resolve. We still have time to choose.”

The Lunar Commons — Who Owns the Moon’s Resources?

Moderator: Jeffrey Sachs
Guests: Peter Diamandis (XPRIZE Founder), Liu Cixin (Science Fiction Author), Vandana Shiva (Eco-Philosopher), Chris Hadfield (Astronaut)

Scene:

A circular stage beneath a holographic lunar surface. Craters and resource deposits are highlighted in glowing yellow, while slow animations depict robotic mining vehicles. Tension builds between techno-optimism and ecological caution.

Jeffrey Sachs (Moderator):

“Our topic today takes us from the philosophical to the practical: Who owns the Moon’s resources? Is this the next gold rush—or a chance to redefine our relationship with nature, even off-planet? Peter, let’s begin with your vision.”

Peter Diamandis:

“Look, abundance is everywhere. Helium-3 could power Earth for centuries. Lunar regolith contains metals for future construction. Mining the Moon won’t destroy it—it will save Earth by shifting extraction off-world. But we need smart policies, lunar property rights, and open markets to make that happen.”

Liu Cixin:

“In science fiction, we often write about humanity expanding too fast—faster than our ethics can evolve. What if the Moon becomes like Antarctica—a place of peace, science, and restraint? It may be harder to resist temptation than to mine. But resisting may be wiser.”

Vandana Shiva:

“Rights must begin with reverence. The Moon is not an object to be plundered. It’s part of a cosmic balance. If we start mining it before we’ve healed our relationship with Earth, we’ll just export our violence. Do we know how lunar dust reacts with mining? With water ice? Or the subtle energetics of a planetless body?”

Chris Hadfield:

“I’ve walked in space. Up there, you feel it: Earth is fragile. The Moon, even more so. That said, resource use is inevitable if we’re serious about long-term lunar habitation. But I’m with Liu—we must think like stewards. Not just settlers.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“So here’s our second critical question: What kind of governance model can ensure fairness, sustainability, and peace when lunar mining begins?”

Peter Diamandis:

“Private enterprise must lead, but within a framework—think Lunar Claims Registry, similar to domain names. You claim a spot, you prove use, you maintain transparency. The Outer Space Treaty bans sovereignty—but it doesn’t ban operations. We need a Lunar Economic Zone.”

Liu Cixin:

“I fear that approach. The first to plant a flag—or drop a drill—wins? That’s the logic of conquest. I prefer we create a ‘Lunar Trust’—a fund where all profits go to Earth-based challenges: poverty, climate, education. Let the Moon serve Earth’s higher needs.”

Vandana Shiva:

“Brilliant. Let’s call it what it is—a commons. Commons require custodians, not owners. And we must add spiritual voices to this governance. Indigenous wisdom. Cosmic awareness. If the Moon is to teach us anything, it must first silence our greed.”

Chris Hadfield:

“Agreed. Maybe we start with ‘no-go zones’—protected areas, historical landing sites. Mining should be like camping: leave no trace unless absolutely necessary. And every mining entity should post a ‘Lunar Impact Statement’—public, peer-reviewed, and enforceable.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“And finally: If we treat the Moon as a commons—what values should guide our actions there?”

Peter Diamandis:

“Boldness with ethics. The future belongs to those who create—and protect.”

Liu Cixin:

“Wisdom and restraint. The Moon can become a mirror for our maturity.”

Vandana Shiva:

“Sacred interdependence. We are not alone, even on the Moon.”

Chris Hadfield:

“Curiosity, community, and care. That’s what space taught me.”

Closing Reflections by Jeffrey Sachs

“This conversation reveals something powerful: the Moon is not just rock and dust—it is meaning. Whether we see it as a mine, a sanctuary, or a mirror depends on the depth of our intention.

The greatest technology we’ll ever bring to the Moon is not a drill—but our conscience.”

The Soul of Space — Does Lunar Exploration Reflect Humanity’s Highest Ideals?

Moderator: Jeffrey Sachs
Guests: The Dalai Lama (spiritual leader), Frank White (author of The Overview Effect), Saito Hitori (Japanese philosopher-entrepreneur), Jane Goodall (primatologist and conservationist)

Scene:

A dimmed lunar amphitheater simulation. Stars pulse gently overhead. In the center, a glowing Moon table. The speakers appear as holograms—each projected from their home on Earth. The atmosphere is reverent and reflective, like a global council of elders.

Jeffrey Sachs (Moderator):

“We close our lunar series with perhaps the most important question: Does our journey to the Moon elevate us—or merely extend our power? Can space be a sacred endeavor? Or will it reflect the same inequalities, fears, and ambitions we’ve long carried? Your Holiness, may we begin with you?”

The Dalai Lama:

“The Moon is silent. In that silence, we may find humility. To go to space is not to conquer—but to listen. If our journey brings compassion, then it is sacred. But if it brings only extraction, then it is samsara—repeating suffering in a new place. Real exploration begins within.”

Frank White:

“I’ve interviewed dozens of astronauts. They all say the same thing: looking back at Earth changes you. You see no borders. Just fragility and unity. I call this the Overview Effect. If lunar missions can offer this perspective to more people, then they become not just missions—but medicine for the soul.”

Saito Hitori:

“宇宙には『愛ある押し出し』が必要です。Moonに行くなら、まず『美しい心』で行くこと。If we go to the Moon with selfishness, we’ll lose our way. But if we go with gratitude and kindness—like dressing nicely to greet a divine friend—then miracles happen. I say to the Moon: ‘We are lucky today, because we meet with love.’ That’s the heart of exploration.”

Jane Goodall:

“When I see the Moon from the jungle or the savannah, I don’t see a target—I see a companion. We've ignored the voices of animals, of trees, of rivers. Will we do the same to the Moon? Or will we finally slow down, listen, and ask: ‘What does the Moon need from us?’ Not just what we need from it.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“Our second question goes deeper: How can lunar exploration inspire ethical action here on Earth? Not just innovation—but transformation.”

The Dalai Lama:

“If you see Earth from space, your heart opens. You realize that anger, borders, greed—all these are illusions. From space, compassion becomes logical. So space must be a school—not just a lab. It must teach us to cherish life.”

Frank White:

“That’s why I dream of a ‘Space Chaplaincy’—not religious, but reflective. Every mission should include someone trained in meaning-making. An ethical astronaut, if you will. Because space changes you. We must prepare people for the awe.”

Saito Hitori:

“If I can bring one thing to the Moon, it’s a joke. Not to mock—but to lift hearts. Joy is divine. Even robots smile when they feel kindness. When we build Moon bases, let’s also build Moon shrines. Let people laugh, give thanks, and dance under stars.”

Jane Goodall:

“Beautiful. Let space travel include ceremonies—planting peace trees on the Moon. Let children from every continent record messages of hope and love to play in lunar orbit. If we reach the stars, but forget wonder, we’ve failed.”

Jeffrey Sachs:

“And finally: What is the spiritual gift the Moon offers us, if we choose to receive it?”

The Dalai Lama:

“Silence. In silence, there is peace. And in peace, there is wisdom.”

Frank White:

“Perspective. The Moon teaches us how small—and yet how precious—we are.”

Saito Hitori:

“Joy! A joyful heart builds joyful worlds. The Moon smiles when we do.”

Jane Goodall:

“Connection. To all life. To mystery. To responsibility.”

Closing Reflections by Jeffrey Sachs

“This conversation reminds us that space is not just an escape—it is a mirror. The Moon does not need us. We need it: to reflect, to pause, to grow. As we prepare to build structures there, may we also build values—compassion, humor, reverence, and humility.

Let the Moon not be our next conquest—but our next conversation with the cosmos.”

Final Thoughts by Elon Musk

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about building a power source on the Moon. It’s about whether we trust ourselves to take the next big leap as a species.

The Moon is a proving ground—not just for technology, but for maturity. Can we innovate without exploiting? Can we collaborate without conquering? If we get this right, we’ll not only power a lunar base—we’ll prove that we’re ready to write the next chapter in human history.

And if we mess it up? Well, then we’ll just prove we weren’t ready to leave home. Either way—the Moon will reflect the truth.

Short Bios:

Elon Musk

CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, Elon Musk is a leading advocate for multi-planetary colonization and advanced energy solutions for off-Earth habitation.

Yury Borisov

Director General of Roscosmos, Borisov leads Russia’s space initiatives and is a key figure in the International Lunar Research Station project.

Michio Kaku

Theoretical physicist and futurist, Kaku is known for popularizing science and exploring the future of space, consciousness, and civilization.

Vandana Shiva

Eco-philosopher and activist, Shiva advocates for ethical science, ecological balance, and indigenous wisdom in global development and exploration.

Xiang Liu

Chief lunar architect at CNSA (China National Space Administration), Liu oversees strategy and development for China’s moonbase and ILRS missions.

Dmitry Rogozin

Former head of Roscosmos, Rogozin played a central role in strengthening Russia’s independent and cooperative space programs post-ISS.

Samantha Power

U.S. diplomat and former UN Ambassador, Power is known for her advocacy on global cooperation, peace, and human rights in international policy.

Carl Bildt

Former Prime Minister of Sweden and diplomat, Bildt is a key voice in European international policy and global governance initiatives.

Bill Nelson

Administrator of NASA and former U.S. Senator, Nelson champions transparency and collaboration in U.S.-led space exploration efforts.

Jean-Jacques Dordain

Former Director-General of the European Space Agency, Dordain helped shape multinational cooperation in space research and satellite technology.

Wu Weiren

Chief designer of China’s lunar missions, Wu leads the country’s technical advancements in robotic exploration and lunar infrastructure.

Richard Branson

Founder of Virgin Galactic, Branson is a commercial spaceflight pioneer and advocate for democratizing access to low Earth orbit and beyond.

Peter Diamandis

Founder of XPRIZE and Singularity University, Diamandis promotes exponential technologies and space entrepreneurship for global abundance.

Liu Cixin

Chinese science fiction author of The Three-Body Problem, Liu reflects deep philosophical questions about space, civilization, and cosmic ethics.

Chris Hadfield

Canadian astronaut and author, Hadfield is known for his leadership aboard the ISS and for humanizing space through music and public engagement.

Frank White

Author of The Overview Effect, White coined the term describing the cognitive shift astronauts experience when viewing Earth from space.

Jane Goodall

Primatologist and environmentalist, Goodall is revered for her work in conservation and her advocacy for interconnectedness across all life forms.

Saito Hitori

Japanese entrepreneur and spiritual teacher, Saito is beloved for his joyful philosophy, teaching love, prosperity, and cosmic gratitude.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Tibetan spiritual leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, the Dalai Lama promotes compassion, nonviolence, and universal responsibility.

Jeffrey Sachs

Economist and global development expert, Sachs moderates visionary conversations on sustainable development, ethics, and planetary cooperation.