CHINA: China’s space program continues to forge ahead with ambitious plans for space exploration. A leading lunar scientist states that the country will “definitely” put astronauts on the moon within the next seven years.
Wu Weiren, the chief designer of China’s lunar exploration program, predicted in an interview with a Chinese broadcaster ahead of the country’s national “space day” on April 24.
The plans for a Chinese crewed lunar landing are already underway, with the country developing a next-generation rocket for an upgraded crew spacecraft. Work is also underway on a lunar lander.
The agency is aiming for a test flight of the new rocket in 2027, while the upgraded spacecraft has already flown a crewless mission. China is also setting its sights on building a permanent lunar base, known as the International Lunar Research Station, planned for construction in the 2030s.
The first steps toward this ambitious space project include robotic missions to the moon’s south pole to test 3D printing technology to create Lego-like bricks from lunar soil.
The International Lunar Research Station will be open to international partners. China is seeking collaborations for the venture, including developed countries such as the United States and European countries, as well as BRICS countries and developing African countries.
Wu Weiren stated that the mission referred to would allow a brief stay on the lunar surface. China also plans to build a permanent base for more extensive lunar exploration and scientific research.
Wu Yansheng, the chairman of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), China’s primary space contractor, presented an animated presentation earlier this year, showing what the future Chinese manned lunar landing might look like.
China has made great strides in its space program in recent years, with its Chang’e-5 mission returning samples from the moon in December 2020, marking the first time any country had done so since 1976.
China’s space program also plans to build a space station in orbit by the end of 2022.
The country views its space program as a point of national pride, with China seeking to establish itself as a leading space power, competing with the United States and Russia. The progress made by China in space exploration has impressed many observers, with experts noting the country’s focus on innovation and long-term planning.
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