BEIJING: The China National Space Administration (CNSA) on Wednesday revealed the latest development in its lunar exploration project at an event held in Wuhan City, central China’s Hubei Province.
According to China Central Television, the project is conceived as an extensive scientific experimental facility with the capacity to undertake interdisciplinary and multifaceted research endeavours centered on lunar exploration and utilisation. It will possess the capability for sustained autonomous operation, whether stationed on the lunar surface or in lunar orbit.
With the continuous accumulation of its deep space exploration technology and experience, China has developed research directions for deep space and international lunar scientific research stations.
Wu Weiren, Chief Designer of China’s Lunar Exploration Programme, explained that the international lunar research base will be constructed in two phases. The first one aims to establish comprehensive scientific facilities with basic functions and essent
ial supporting elements around the lunar south pole by 2035. The second phase plans to build a well-equipped and stable facility of considerable scale around the lunar orbital station by 2045.
“The moon serves as a starting point, and an international lunar research station will provide a platform for long-term scientific research, work and habitation, paving the way for future human exploration into deeper space. It will serve as a technological, material, and intellectual reservoir, preparing us for future missions to Mars and other distant destinations in space,” said Wu.
Source: Emirates News Agency
