China shapes its future lunar car for manned missions in 2030 | space race

The prototype of a chinese lunar rover designed for manned missions planned from 2030 onwards is now in its initial development phase.

According to a statement issued by the Chinese Academy of Space Technology (CAST) on November 15, the lunar vehicle, which features a modular and foldable structure, is equipped to transport two astronauts in manned operations. A concept image published by CAST illustrates the vehicle, which has the appearance of an open-top off-road vehicle and incorporates elements of ancient Chinese cars.

Automaker GAC Group, Tsinghua University, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Harbin Institute of Technology and Hong Kong Polytechnic University have contributed to the design of this lunar rover, CAST revealed.

Additionally, the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST) is carrying out a parallel development program for China’s lunar rover.

The Manned Lunar Vehicle is designed for rapid movement across irregular lunar landscapes, precise navigation and positioning, enhanced safety support, and continuous real-time communication with Earth. In addition, it will collaborate with the lunar infrastructure to execute integrated man-machine exploration missions on the surface of the Moon.

China continues its mission to land astronauts on the Moon in 2030. Production and ground testing of prototypes of the Long March-10 carrier rocket, the Mengzhou manned spacecraft, the Lanyue lunar lander, and the spacesuit they will wear the astronauts are underway. CAST is responsible for developing both Mengzhou and Lanyue.

The Chinese Manned Space Agency has announced that a group of 10 astronauts will participate in a training regimen aimed at manned lunar landing missions. It is planned that astronauts will acquire skills in maneuvering spacecraft and operating lunar vehicles.