China and Thailand have signed two memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to collaborate on the exploration and peaceful use of outer space, including the International Lunar Research Station. The agreements were signed on Friday in Beijing between the China National Space Administration (CNSA) and Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.
Under the new partnership, Thailand will contribute a global space weather monitoring device to China’s Chang’e-7 lunar exploration mission, scheduled for launch around 2026. This device, designed to observe cosmic radiation and space weather from a lunar perspective, marks the first time a Thai scientific instrument will venture into deep space beyond Earth orbit.
The collaboration extends to the Chang’e-8 mission, planned for launch around 2028, which offers a payload capacity of 200 kg for international cooperation. Thailand has submitted multiple proposals for lunar surface operation robots and scientific payloads, which are currently under consideration.
According to Guan Feng, director of the Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center of CNSA, China is progressing into the fourth phase of its lunar exploration program. This phase aims to build the basic model of the International Lunar Research Station and includes the Chang’e-4, Chang’e-6, Chang’e-7, and Chang’e-8 missions.
The MoUs outline plans for China and Thailand to strengthen cooperation in space exploration, applications, and capacity building. This includes implementing joint space projects, scientific exchange programs, and personnel training, as well as the exchange of data and information. Both nations will engage in related research, drafting plans, and participating in the demonstration, engineering implementation, operation, and application of the International Lunar Research Station.
The agreements also invite other countries, international organizations, research institutes, universities, industrial entities, and scientists to join the International Lunar Research Station program and benefit from joint space exploration efforts.
“In terms of global cooperation, China has signed agreements with more than 10 countries and international organizations,” said Guan Feng. “More participants are welcome to contribute to the discussion, construction, and sharing, to jointly build scientific research facilities on the lunar surface for humanity.”
Reference(s):
China, Thailand collaborate on lunar exploration and space cooperation
cgtn.com
