China’s space station is preparing to strengthen its role as an international scientific platform hosting researchers from various countries.
This is according to China’s first astronaut, Yang Liwei, who made the announcement during a space navigation conference in Antalya.
Liwei explained that the station is looking to welcome its first foreign astronaut during the second half of this year.
The program will select one of two Pakistani candidates currently training alongside Chinese astronauts to take part in a short mission as a scientific equipment specialist.
At the same time, China is inviting countries to take part in the “International Lunar Research Station” project, which aims to establish a research facility on the Moon’s surface and in its orbit.
Russia has been participating in the project since 2021, as part of cooperation between Roscosmos and the China National Space Administration.
China also plans to build a lunar nuclear power station by 2036 to supply energy for future infrastructure.
The project includes two phases: the first aims to complete the basic model near the Moon’s south pole by 2035, with contributions from the Chang’e-7 and Chang’e-8 missions. The second phase aims to expand the facility by 2045.
Research will focus on lunar geology, astronomical observation and the space environment, in addition to basic science experiments and the utilization of local resources.
The planned capabilities also include transport between Earth and the Moon, as well as providing power, communications and navigation.
The facility will operate independently for extended periods, with short human visits and the potential for expansion and maintenance.
As such, the project opens new horizons for scientific cooperation and lunar exploration.
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