China targets Moon's south pole, asteroid sample return in 2026
What's the story
China's National Space Administration has unveiled an ambitious plan for five major space missions in 2026. The lineup includes the Chang'e-7 lunar mission, Tianwen-2 asteroid sample return mission, crewed Shenzhou flights to the Tiangong space station, the Mengzhou-1 uncrewed test flight, and the Xuntian Space Telescope. Each of these missions is aimed at expanding China's presence in space and contributing significantly to scientific research on the Moon, asteroids, and satellite technology.
Mission details
Chang'e-7 lunar mission: A step toward lunar exploration
The Chang'e-7 robotic mission, scheduled for August 2026, will target the Moon's south pole. The region is known for its water ice and unique geological features. The mission will include an orbiter for mapping, a lander to explore the surface, a rover for mobility and a mini-hopping probe to traverse difficult terrain. This data will be crucial for China's long-term lunar exploration plans including preparation for the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).
Asteroid exploration
Tianwen-2: China's first asteroid sample return mission
The Tianwen-2 probe is set to reach asteroid 2016 HO3 (Kamo`oalewa) in July 2026. It will collect samples and study the composition of this near-Earth body. This will be China's first attempt at an asteroid sample return, providing valuable insights into early Solar System materials and planetary formation. The mission highlights China's commitment to deep-space exploration beyond the Moon.
Crewed missions
Shenzhou flights and Mengzhou-1 test flight
Throughout 2026, CNSA will continue human spaceflight operations on the Tiangong space station with Shenzhou-23 and Shenzhou-24 missions. These flights will rotate crew members, conduct long-duration experiments, and test life-support systems for future beyond low Earth orbit missions. Separately, around June-July 2026, the Mengzhou-1 spacecraft will undergo its first uncrewed test mission. This spacecraft is designed to eventually replace Shenzhou for crewed lunar missions including future landings.
Telescope launch
Xuntian space telescope: A leap in astronomical research
China plans to launch the Xuntian space telescope (CSST) in late 2026. Once in orbit, it will operate near the Tiangong space station, enabling potential servicing and upgrades by astronauts. With its 2-meter primary mirror and extremely wide field of view, Xuntian will conduct large-scale sky surveys, study galaxies, search for exoplanets and map cosmic structures. This ambitious project is one of the most significant Chinese endeavors in space science yet.