The draft Federal Space Program for 2016-2025 prepared by the Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) includes implementation of projects in the area of exploration of the Moon, Interfax reports with reference to a source familiar with the situation.

“The most important milestones of the Russian lunar exploration program will be achieved after 2025 (after the Federal Space Program expires). Nevertheless, the work in this area begins today. Otherwise, it may be too late,” the source said.

He added that an automated research module should be delivered to the Moon in 2029.

“It will gather information, which may be useful for construction of the Moon base and it will also study the structure of moon soil using special equipment and try to find any mineral resources or water ice in it,” he explained.

He also said that Russian lunar exploration program includes a series of unmanned and manned spaceflights to the Moon to be performed during the period from 2030 to 2035. A next-generation transport spacecraft and upgraded Angara-A5V heavy launch vehicles will be used to perform these spaceflights.