Amber Phillips
Updated on: October 7, 2024 11:08 pm GMT
The International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) is a major project led by China, aimed at establishing a comprehensive lunar research facility. Recent developments highlight significant international cooperation, with agencies from six countries—China, Laos, Turkey, Venezuela, Senegal, and Cuba—participating in an open roundtable forum for the initiative. Turkey has expressed interest in joining the ILRS, aligning with China’s goal of attracting 50 countries to the project.
As part of the ILRS initiative, China plans to launch precursor missions in the 2020s, specifically the Chang’e-7 mission around 2026 and Chang’e-8 around 2028. These missions will focus on lunar exploration, particularly in the lunar south pole region, and will test in-situ resource utilization technologies.
China envisions the establishment of a basic robotic ILRS by 2035, supported by five launches that will develop essential infrastructure like power and communications. A more advanced station capable of long-term human habitation is projected for 2045.
The ILRS has garnered participation from various countries, now including Senegal, which, despite having a modest space industry, is taking strides in satellite technology development, as evidenced by its recent satellite launch. Additionally, China has signed memoranda of understanding with subnational entities and institutions from nations including the UAE, Serbia, Switzerland, Indonesia, Pakistan, Panama, and South Africa.
These partnerships reflect China’s strategy of attracting participants from the Global South, aligning with broader diplomatic efforts. The Deep Space Exploration Lab (DSEL), responsible for coordinating ILRS, reported that over 10 countries and 40 institutions have already signed cooperation agreements with Chinese entities in this endeavor.
The ILRS is an important step for countries working together in space exploration. China is taking a leading role and is excited to build partnerships and help with research about the Moon.
