The China National Space Administration (CNSA) has unveiled a video showcasing its ambitious plans for a lunar base, known as the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).

This concept, jointly announced with Russia in 2021, aims to establish a comprehensive scientific outpost on the moon over the next couple of decades.

CNSA’s recent presentation, part of the country’s Space Day celebrations, highlights missions including surface sample returns, lander and rover operations, and supporting orbital satellites.

These align with upcoming Chang’e missions, with Chang’e-6 and 7 scheduled for launch in the near future.

As China takes the lead in this lunar initiative, it seeks international partners, with several countries already on board, Space.com has reported.

The ILRS is envisioned as a hub for interdisciplinary research and long-term habitation, with construction planned in two phases, aiming for completion by 2045.

Despite geopolitical tensions, CNSA’s vision for lunar exploration underscores China’s growing ambitions in space exploration.

Written by B.C. Begley