The program, released by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), the China National Space Administration (CNSA), and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), aims to "achieve high-quality development in space science, drive breakthroughs in space technology, enhance space applications, and position China among the top space nations."
CAS highlighted that this program is expected to speed up revolutionary breakthroughs in basic space research, help China achieve major scientific milestones ahead of schedule, drive advancements in space technology, and promote the high-quality development of space applications.
Additionally, the program supports the creation of a global community in outer space and positions China as a world leader in space exploration, science, and technology, according to the CAS statement.
The program outlines a three-stage development plan for space science in China.
By 2027, China aims to achieve several significant scientific results with global impact. It will continue operating the China Space Station, advance planetary exploration, and complete the fourth phase of its lunar exploration projects, which includes the country's first manned lunar landing.
CMSA spokesperson Lin Xiqiang described manned lunar exploration as a strategic initiative that not only advances human civilization but also demonstrates China's responsibilities as a major power.
During the second stage, from 2028 to 2035, China plans to achieve groundbreaking scientific discoveries through its first-phase missions. It will continue operating the China Space Station, pursue manned lunar exploration, and carry out other key projects like the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), solar system boundary exploration, giant planet system exploration, and Venus atmospheric sample return missions.
Yang Xiaoyu, director of CNSA's system engineering department, noted that the ILRS has seen extensive international collaboration.
"We've signed agreements with 17 countries and international organizations, and we're ready to offer collaboration opportunities at various levels," Yang said. "We'll work with partners on joint mission plans, co-design of the International Lunar Research Station, technical collaborations, mission planning, and sharing of scientific data."
This phase will involve five to six major missions, along with about 25 medium-to-small scale or opportunity-based missions. By the third stage, from 2036 to 2050, China's space science will be at the forefront globally. Five to six major missions will continue, alongside about 25 smaller missions.
China will also conduct research under five scientific themes: the extreme universe, ripples in spacetime, the Sun-Earth system, habitable planets, and the fundamental laws of space.
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