China is expanding its long-term space exploration plans with a new focus on sustainability. Scientists are now preparing research related to a greenhouse on the lunar surface under the China moon exploration program.
According to officials from the China National Space Administration (CNSA), the project aims to improve survival conditions for future lunar missions. The idea is to support robots and rovers during extreme lunar nights.
Senior space engineer Wang Qiong explained the concept during a press briefing in Beijing. He said the China moon project will explore ways to build protective systems on the Moon. These systems could help withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Lunar nights last around 14 Earth days. During this period, temperatures can drop to nearly minus 200 degrees Celsius. Scientists believe a greenhouse structure could help equipment survive these extreme conditions.
Wang said that as the China moon program advances, long-term human presence on the Moon is becoming more realistic. A greenhouse could become an important part of future lunar bases.
He also highlighted progress from earlier missions. The Chang’e-6 mission has already provided valuable scientific data. It helped researchers understand the evolution of the Moon’s far side.
On June 25, 2024, the Chang’e-6 probe successfully returned to Earth. It brought back nearly 1,935 grams of lunar samples. This marked a major milestone for global space exploration.
Researchers working on the China moon program say these samples have led to important discoveries. They have helped scientists study the Moon’s geological history in greater detail.
Wang also pointed to international cooperation as a key achievement. The Chang’e-6 mission carried scientific instruments from several countries. These included Pakistan, France, the European Space Agency, and Italy.
The instruments delivered results that exceeded expectations. Officials say this collaboration strengthens global participation in space research and future China moon missions.
Experts believe the new greenhouse research could play a major role in future lunar development. It may support longer missions and improve survival systems for equipment.
In other news read more about China Opens Moon Sample Access to US Scientists Amid Trade Tensions
The China moon initiative continues to move toward advanced exploration goals. Scientists say the long-term vision includes sustainable lunar research and possible human activity on the Moon.
