Human lunar exploration, China

[Administrator]

China National Space Administration

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation

China Academy of Space Technology

China Manned Space Agency

China Manned Space Program

Mengzhou, reusable spacecraft

Lanyue, lunar surface lander

 

[Administrator]

Mengzhou and Lanyue - China’s human lunar exploration vehicles

Feb 25, 2024

The China National Space Administration (CNSA) has announced the names of the space vehicles designed for human lunar exploration. The new crewed spacecraft is named Mengzhou (梦舟, “dream vessel”). The lunar lander is named Lanyue (揽月, “embracing the moon”).

 

[Administrator]

Mengzhou launch abort system test

Jun 17, 2025

According to the China National Space Administration (CNSA), a launch abort system test of the Mengzhou crewed spacecraft was conducted on 17 June 2025, at 04:30 UTC (12.30 China Standard Time). During the test simulating a launch pad abort, the launch escape tower propelled the Mengzhou capsule, reaching the desired altitude in 20 seconds, then the capsule separated and returned under parachutes for an air-bag assisted landing. The Mengzhou (梦舟, “dream vessel”) crewed spacecraft is designed for human lunar exploration.