China’s aspirations for lunar exploration have been a journey spanning decades, rooted in humble beginnings back in 1956. From scratch, the nation embarked on a mission to reach the stars, laying the foundations for what would become a significant player in space exploration.
In the 1990s, three visionary scientists, all in their fifties, emerged as pioneers in China’s lunar ambitions. Their collective yearning to set foot on the lunar surface propelled China’s space program into a new era. These scientists championed the cause of lunar exploration, advocating for technological advancements and rallying support for missions beyond Earth’s orbit.
Their efforts culminated in the launch of the Chang’e lunar exploration program, named after the legendary Chinese moon goddess. The program marked a series of milestones, including orbiting, landing, and roving on the Moon’s surface. Notably, the Chang’e-3 mission in 2013 successfully landed the Yutu rover, making China the third nation to achieve a soft landing on the Moon.
Continuing this legacy, China achieved a historic first in 2019 with the Chang’e-4 mission, which performed the first-ever soft landing on the far side of the Moon. These achievements not only showcase China’s technological prowess but also contribute significantly to scientific understanding of the lunar environment.
Looking ahead, China’s lunar ambitions include plans for sample return missions and even the prospect of a manned lunar landing. The dedication of those pioneering scientists from the 1990s has paved the way for a new generation of explorers and innovators, as China continues to expand its presence in outer space.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
