This information was announced by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) on the evening of November 5, marking a new advancement in the country’s ambitious space program.
At a press conference on October 29 held at the Zhiquan Satellite Launch Center, representatives from CASC confirmed that China is vigorously advancing research and development activities for its manned lunar mission. Currently, many key phases of the project have entered the finalization stage, including the development of the Long March 10 rocket, the crewed spacecraft Mengzhou, and the lunar lander.
The crewed lunar rover has officially entered the initial prototype development stage.
Important components such as the testing of the first stage electrical systems and three core rocket engines, as well as altitude simulation tests of the YF-75E hydrogen-oxygen engine, have also been completed. These tests, along with the construction and deployment of the necessary ground infrastructure, ensure the progress and readiness for the next steps of the program.
Notably, the crewed lunar rover has officially entered the initial prototype development stage. The Shanghai Academy of Aerospace Science and Technology, also known as the Eighth Academy, along with the Fifth Academy of CASC, has secured the contract for developing this prototype. Both teams bring unique innovations, and the initial prototype development program will be carried out in parallel. A comparative testing phase will occur at the end of this process to determine the optimal vehicle model. China is expected to announce the official name for this lunar rover in 2025.
The crewed lunar landing mission will be carried out by the fourth group of astronauts. In May, the astronaut selection process was completed, with 10 reserve astronauts chosen, including eight primary astronauts and two payload specialists. They began training in August, focusing on both space station missions and preparations for the lunar mission.
China invests heavily in the development of space vehicles and technologies.
The training program for this group of astronauts is highly diverse, covering everything from maintaining health and working in a weightless environment to conducting extravehicular activities and scientific experiments. To prepare for the challenges on the moon, the crew must also master rover operation skills, geological research, and navigation on the planet’s low-gravity surface.
China’s significant investment in developing space vehicles and technologies demonstrates its strong determination to conquer outer space. With current advancements, the nation is getting closer to realizing its historic goal: landing Chinese astronauts on the moon by 2030. This milestone is not only crucial for China’s aerospace industry but also a statement of its position in the global space race.
