Beijing, China – China’s ambitious plans to establish a presence on the moon are taking shape with the upcoming Chang’e 8 mission, set to launch in 2028. This mission will feature groundbreaking technology that could revolutionize lunar exploration and pave the way for future habitation efforts.
The Chang’e 8 spacecraft aims to utilize in-situ resource utilization by 3D-printing bricks out of lunar soil. This innovative approach not only cuts costs significantly but also expands the possibilities for constructing a base on the lunar surface. Chief designer of the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program, Wu Weiren, highlighted the significance of this development, emphasizing the potential impact on the future of moon exploration.
The process involves harnessing solar energy to melt lunar soil at temperatures exceeding 1400 degrees Celsius, which is then shaped into bricks using 3D printing technology. This method eliminates the need to transport materials from Earth, making it a sustainable and efficient way to utilize the resources found on the moon. Successful testing of this technology could open the door to a wide array of construction projects on the moon.
China’s progress in this area is not limited to the Chang’e 8 mission, as previous initiatives have laid the groundwork for lunar exploration and colonization. Sending bricks made from lunar soil simulant to the Tiangong space station for testing demonstrates China’s commitment to developing viable solutions for building lunar habitats. These bricks will undergo rigorous testing in the harsh conditions of outer space to assess their durability and suitability for future construction projects.
In addition to the Chang’e 8 mission, China plans to launch Chang’e 7 in 2026, focusing on exploring the south pole of the moon and searching for valuable resources such as water. The discovery of water ice on the moon could be a game-changer, providing essential resources for sustaining life and enabling further exploration. With a strong track record of successful missions, China is on track to land astronauts on the moon for the first time by 2030, marking a significant milestone in lunar exploration.
As China continues to advance its lunar exploration efforts, the possibility of establishing a permanent presence on the moon becomes increasingly realistic. By leveraging innovative technologies and strategic planning, China is poised to make significant contributions to humanity’s understanding of the moon and its potential for supporting future missions and colonization.