China plans new deep space exploration missions

BEIJING, June 27 (Xinhua) -- China is scheduled to launch the Tianwen-2 mission around 2025 for asteroid exploration, Tianwen-3 mission around 2030 to collect Martian samples and Tianwen-4 mission also around 2030 to explore the Jovian system, according to a senior official from the China National Space Administration (CNSA) on Thursday.

Bian Zhigang, deputy head of the CNSA, speaking at a press conference, said that the three future missions were among four planetary exploration missions given state approval.

The first mission, the Tianwen-1 Mars mission, already achieved a complete success in 2021, and the remaining missions are expected to be completed in 10 to 15 years.

He noted that the country's future planetary exploration missions will focus on major scientific goals, such as research into the origin and evolution of the solar system, the impact of small bodies and solar activities on Earth, and extraterrestrial life.

In addition, the Chang'e-7 probe will conduct surveys on the lunar south pole region and Chang'e-8 will carry out technology tests on the in-situ utilization of lunar resources.

Bian highlighted that China will work with international counterparts to jointly build the International Lunar Research Station and share lunar exploration sci-tech achievements.

He added that the future plans also include the development of heavy-lift launch vehicles and reusable space transportation systems.