China plans to send a flying robot to the moon’s far side next year to search for frozen water, crucial for future lunar exploration.

The “flying detector” will be part of the Chang’e-7 mission, which aims to advance China’s goal of landing astronauts on the moon within five years.

China is expanding its space ambitions, competing with nations like the U.S. for scientific progress, resources, and national security advantages.

Scientists believe ice in deep craters on the moon’s far side could sustain future lunar missions by providing a water source for astronauts.

China’s mission is part of its plan to build a research base at the lunar south pole, with the flying detector set to explore deep caves for ice deposits, CNN has reported.

Experts say finding lunar ice could lower space mission costs and potentially support human life on the moon.

Written by B.C. Begley