Race to the Moon · China
Official target, as worded: Around 2029 (CNSA, Apr 2025; the Sep 2024 plan said around 2028). Chang’e 8 is a lander + rover mission in the Chang’e programme by China (lunar exploration programme), counted under China.
Data reviewed against sources as of · All dates UTC unless a local time is shown
Lander, rover and a multi-purpose robot for the Leibnitz-Beta Plateau near the south pole (CNSA); tests 3-D printing of bricks from regolith. Chang’e 7 and 8 are to be parts of the ILRS "basic model". SpaceNews reported on 10 Sep 2026 that CMSA, now in charge of lunar missions, "appears to be reconfiguring" the robotic landing programme; there is no official statement.
Official target, as worded: Around 2029 (CNSA, Apr 2025; the Sep 2024 plan said around 2028).
Chang’e 8 is a lander + rover mission in the Chang’e programme by China (lunar exploration programme), counted under China.
Scheduled. Lander, rover and a multi-purpose robot for the Leibnitz-Beta Plateau near the south pole (CNSA); tests 3-D printing of bricks from regolith.
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