China plans to build its first moon base powered by nuclear energy by 2028

Source: The post is based on the article “China plans to build its first moon base powered by nuclear energy by 2028” published in Business Standard on 26th November.

What is the News?

China plans to build its first base on the moon by 2028 followed by the landing of astronauts there in the years that follow.

About China’s Lunar Base

China’s Lunar base will likely be powered by nuclear energy. (Nuclear energy can provide long-term, high-power energy requirements for the lunar base).

Its basic configuration will consist of a lander, hopper, orbiter and rover, all of which will be constructed by the Chang’e 6, 7 and 8 missions.

What are China’s ambitious plans in Space?

China has ramped up its ambitions in space in recent years by sending probes to the moon, building its own space station and setting its sights on Mars. The plans have put it in direct competition with the US.

In 2019, China became the first country to land a rover on the far side of the moon and later brought back its first lunar samples. The base is intended to be the first outpost on the moon’s South Pole, an area scientists think is the best place to find water. 

NASA is also targeting that part of the moon. China aims to eventually expand the base into an international research station.