Techno Frontier

Roscosmos and ISRO Announce Joint Lunar Exploration Program

February 16, 2026 at 10:36 PM1,203 views

Space Cooperation

Roscosmos and the Indian Space Research Organisation have signed a framework agreement for joint lunar exploration, including a shared lunar surface research station.

Mission Timeline

  • 2027: Joint orbital survey mission (Luna-ISRO Orbiter)
  • 2028: Robotic lander with Indian rover and Russian drill system
  • 2030: First module of International Lunar Research Station

Technology Sharing

  • Russia contributes: heavy-lift launch (Angara-A5V), life support, nuclear power systems
  • India contributes: precision landing, rover navigation, communication relay

The program budget is estimated at $3.8 billion shared between both agencies over 8 years.

Related Dispatches