Hey there, space enthusiasts! 🌌 Get ready to blast off because the Chinese mainland just unveiled an out-of-this-world plan to build an International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) by 2050! 🌕✨ This isn't just any moon base—it's a network linking the moon's south pole, equator, and even the mysterious far side. Talk about shooting for the stars! 🚀
What's the scoop? 🤔 Wu Yanhua, the chief designer of China's major deep space exploration project, spilled the cosmic beans at the International Deep Space Exploration Conference in Huangshan City. He revealed a blueprint for a lunar station that's not only expandable and maintainable but also capable of long-term robot operations with short-term human visits. Yep, you heard that right—robots and astronauts teaming up on the moon! 🤖👩🚀
Join the mission! 🌍 Wu extended an open invitation to nations worldwide to hop on board this lunar adventure. Whether it's through concept studies, equipment, system development, or mission participation, there's room on this rocket for everyone. 🚀🌠
Phases of the moon mission 🌓 The ILRS will roll out in two stellar phases:
- By 2035: Construct the basic model in the moon's south pole region. 🛠️🌖
- By 2050: Expand to a comprehensive lunar station network with exploration nodes at the equator and far side. 🌐🌘
This lunar network will have a central hub in lunar orbit and a primary base at the south pole. It's like building a lunar city connected by cosmic highways! 🛣️🌌
Why does it matter? 🌠 This isn't just about exploring the moon. Wu mentioned that the extended model of the ILRS will lay the groundwork for future manned landings on Mars! 🔴🚀 Imagine that—the moon is just a pit stop on our way to the Red Planet. Talk about ambitious! 💫
Tech talk 🛸 The ILRS will be powered by a mix of solar, radioisotope, and nuclear generators. It will feature high-speed lunar communication networks and cool lunar vehicles like hoppers, long-range unmanned vehicles, and both pressurized and unpressurized rovers. Think lunar road trips! 🚗🌕
Plus, they're developing Earth-moon transportation systems, including refueling stations, launch vehicles, orbiters, and more to make travel between our planet and the moon smooth sailing. 🌊🚀
The big picture 🌄 China's plan isn't just a one-nation show—it's a global invitation to explore the cosmos together. So gear up, future astronauts and space lovers, the final frontier is calling! 🌟🚀
Reference(s):
China outlines blueprint for international lunar research station
cgtn.com
