Official announcements from the China National Space Administration or international partners

China Unveils Space Science Plan Through 2050, First Manned Lunar Exploration by 2027

Oct 15, 2024, 07:31 AM

China has unveiled its first national mid and long-term development program for space science, which will guide the country's planning of space science missions and research from 2024 to 2050. The program, announced on October 15, 2024, outlines 17 priority areas under five key scientific themes and a three-phase roadmap. Key focuses include exploring the habitability of solar system bodies and exoplanets, lunar studies, Mars' habitability, and searching for extraterrestrial life. The plan, developed by the China National Space Administration, aims to establish China as a global leader in space science by 2050 and includes extensive international cooperation. It also sets the goal of implementing the first manned lunar exploration by 2027.