Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) is accelerating its contributions to China's space ambitions with plans to deploy the Yueshan lunar orbiter in 2028, a first-of-its-kind mission designed to assess meteoroid risks for future lunar infrastructure. The announcement, made on November 24, 2025, underscores Hong Kong's growing role in safeguarding China's extraterrestrial endeavors.
Named after the Chinese term for "moon flashes," Yueshan will monitor transient lunar phenomena – intense light bursts caused by meteoroid impacts. These events pose significant risks to planned lunar research bases due to the moon's lack of atmospheric protection. "No existing devices provide this level of continuous monitoring," said Su Meng of the University of Hong Kong's Laboratory for Space Research. "Yueshan could redefine lunar safety standards globally."
The orbiter's data will inform engineering strategies for China's Chang'e-7 and Chang'e-8 lunar missions, as well as the Tianwen-3 Mars sample return project. Hong Kong-born payload specialists currently training with China's space agency may participate in these missions, marking another milestone in regional integration with national programs.
With three years until launch, scientists emphasize Yueshan's dual significance: advancing planetary defense capabilities while positioning Hong Kong as a hub for deep-space innovation. The project aligns with China's broader vision to establish sustainable lunar operations by the 2030s.
