In 2026, China will launch its Chang’e-7 lunar probe, an ambitious mission designed to explore the Moon’s south pole and search for water ice. This mission marks a significant step in China’s space exploration program, as it aims to uncover vital resources that could support long-term lunar habitation. The mission will deploy a variety of advanced technologies, including an orbiter, lander, rover, and a unique flying robotic detector, all working in tandem to reach the farthest corners of the Moon and test the feasibility of future human presence.
Exploring the Moon’s South Pole
The focus of the Chang’e-7 mission is the Moon’s south pole, a region that has long been thought to harbor water ice in its permanently shadowed craters. These areas are perpetually cold, with temperatures that can drop below -250°F (-157°C), making them prime candidates for preserving frozen water for billions of years. If ice deposits are found, they could revolutionize space exploration, providing a crucial resource for astronauts, reducing the cost of missions, and possibly supporting the exploration of Mars or deep space in the future.
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Role of the Flying Robot
One of the standout features of the Chang’e-7 mission is its innovative flying robotic detector, designed to leap across the lunar surface in search of ice. This “hopper” will be able to autonomously perform detailed analyses of the terrain, traveling from sunlit areas to shadowed craters. By utilizing a rocket-powered system and multiple legs, the flying robot can navigate the rugged lunar surface, performing multiple leaps before switching to solar power for extended exploration. The robot will help identify the location, quantity, and distribution of ice, which could provide a foundation for a sustainable lunar research station.
Tang Yuhua, deputy chief designer of the Chang’e-7 mission, explained that the flying detector is an “extremely smart robot” capable of bending its legs and using joint-driven movement, mimicking a human’s jump to land on different slopes. This advanced design allows the robot to explore areas that are difficult for traditional rovers to access, significantly expanding the areas of the Moon that can be studied.
Technological Advancements for Future Lunar Habitation
The Chang’e-7 mission is not just about discovering water—it’s also testing cutting-edge technologies to lay the groundwork for sustainable human activities on the Moon. The hopper’s ability to jump and travel long distances is an important step in exploring the lunar surface, while the lander will deploy a deep-space “landmark image navigation” system to ensure precise landings. The mission’s autonomous capabilities also mean that more than half of the operations will be conducted without ground intervention, showcasing China’s growing expertise in robotic space exploration.
The lunar probe will also be subjected to extreme conditions, including subzero temperatures and difficult terrain, providing invaluable data for future missions. The results of the Chang’e-7 mission could prove critical in reducing the cost of transporting water from Earth and, in turn, enable the establishment of a permanent human base on the Moon, facilitating long-term lunar exploration and the potential for future Mars missions.
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The Chang’e-7 mission is just one part of China’s broader strategy for lunar exploration. In 2028, the Chang’e-8 mission will work alongside its predecessor to help establish an automated lunar exploration network. This will be a key stepping stone toward China’s goal of sending astronauts to the Moon by 2030. With these efforts, China aims to position itself as a major player in space exploration, capable of sustaining long-term missions and opening the door to the exploration of deep space.