By 
April 26th, 2025
Image credit: CGTN/Inside Outer Space screengrab
China’s Wu Weiren, chief designer of China’s lunar exploration program, reports that a total of 17 countries and international organizations, as well as over 50 international research institutions have joined an International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) program initiated by that country.
China welcomes international participants to join the ILRS, said Wu.
China has previously announced plans for a crewed mission to the Moon to take place before 2030, and preparations are progressing smoothly, states the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
Image credit: CGTN/Inside Outer Space screengrab
Phase Four
Wu recently shared details on the construction of a Moon research station with comprehensive facilities and international participation.
“We hope that on the basis of Phase Four of our lunar exploration program, there will be a large international scientific-technological research project initiated by China, with the participation of multiple countries,” said Wu.
The research station at the lunar south pole will be capable of automatically supplying power for itself and making telecommunications available on site.
Lunar south pole.
Image credit: CGTN/Inside Outer Space screengrab
“Centered around the lunar south pole, it will cover both the lunar surface and the lunar orbit, and can extend to farther locations. For example, the research station will be equipped with multiple systems including lunar rovers, landers, hoppers, and networks. Once assembled, we will be able to conduct long-term unmanned exploration there, as well as accommodate short-term human presence,” Wu said.
Wu added that he believes that ultimately the construction of a lunar research station would serve China’s future Mars missions. “I believe this is a very important goal for us,” Wu said in an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN).
Key areas
There are several key areas of international cooperation in putting in place an ILRS, Wu said.
China lunar research station planning underway.
Image credit: CCTV/Inside Outer Space screengrab
Technical level: Working together to develop and implement shared plans. Technological breakthroughs are essential, particularly to tackle the harsh conditions of the lunar South Pole, including challenges related to lighting, power supply, and extreme temperature variations.
Cooperation on scientific instruments: Scientific exploration using instrument payloads, to collaborate with China in this endeavor. Joint research is encouraged, but for those who prefer to conduct independent studies, China is also willing to assist in delivering their instruments to the lunar surface.
Scientific data: Once obtained, this data will be analyzed collaboratively or shared with participating countries for joint research.
Collaboration at ground headquarters: Located in China, the headquarters welcomes scientists from around the world for academic exchange.
Go to this informative video on China’s lunar plans at:
Posted in Space News
