China pauses Chang'e-7 lunar probe launch over tropical depression Narra
Technology
China has hit pause on its Chang'e-7 lunar probe launch, which was supposed to happen this year.
Thanks to Tropical Depression Narra stirring up the Gulf of Tonkin, the China Manned Space Agency said the probe "does not meet launch conditions" and is holding off for safety.
No new date yet: some reports say it might be pushed all the way to 2027.
Chang'e-7 to explore lunar south pole
Chang'e-7 is a big deal for China's space goals: it's set to explore the moon's south pole for water and test advanced landing technology.
This mission builds on recent wins like Chang'e-6, which brought back samples from the moon's far side in 2024.
If all goes well, it'll help pave the way for Chinese astronauts to walk on the moon by 2030.