China's new moon mission to probe secrets of lunar ice

China is preparing a new lunar exploration mission called Chang'e-7, aimed at gathering more information about water ice believed to be trapped within permanently shadowed craters on the moon's surface.

These craters, located mainly near the moon's south pole, never receive direct sunlight, resulting in extremely low temperatures. Scientists have long suspected that water ice could be preserved in these regions, but precise data on its quantity and distribution remains lacking.

Why it matters

Confirming the presence and extent of water ice in lunar craters could significantly influence future space exploration planning. Water resources on the moon could theoretically be used as raw material for drinking water, oxygen production, or even rocket fuel for future missions, reducing the need to transport all supplies from Earth.

The Chang'e-7 mission is part of China's broader lunar exploration program, which includes further plans for a sustained presence on the moon's surface. More precise data on the location and quantity of ice would help guide the objectives and potential landing sites of future missions.

The mission's results are expected to be valuable not only for China's space program but also for the wider international scientific community interested in the potential use of lunar resources in the future.