China's Chang'e-7 mission to send 'smart flying robot' to hunt for water on the Moon's south pole

China Plans Lunar Mission to Search for Water at Moon’s South Pole. (Image: CNSA)

China is preparing an ambitious lunar mission to explore the Moon’s south pole. The mission, set for 2026, includes a robotic "flyer detector" designed to search for water. Scientists believe finding water could support future human missions.

Mission Details and Goals
The Chang’e-7 mission will consist of four key components. These include an orbiter, a lander, a lunar rover and a flying robotic detector. According to Chinese space officials, the mission will focus on locating water ice in permanently shadowed craters.

Tang Yuhua, the deputy chief designer of Chang’e-7, said the probe will test China’s ability to land anywhere on the Moon. "If we find water ice, it could reduce the need to transport water from Earth," she explained. This could help establish a future lunar base and support deep-space exploration.

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Advanced Technology for Lunar Exploration
The flying detector is described as an "extremely smart robot." It can land repeatedly on uneven slopes, using a leg-driven system to absorb impact. "Its movement is similar to how humans bend their legs when jumping," Yuhua said.

China’s space experts confirmed that the robot can travel several kilometres in a single leap. It will jump from sunlit areas to shadowed craters, conducting detailed studies. A ring of small thrusters and fuel tanks will power its movement, while solar panels will extend its mission.

Future Lunar Missions
China’s lunar programme aims to establish a long-term presence on the Moon. The Chang’e-8 mission, planned for 2028, will work alongside Chang’e-7. Together, they will set up an automated research network, paving the way for human missions by 2030.

China’s space agency believes these missions will help test technology for lunar habitation. By studying water ice and other lunar resources, scientists hope to support future deep-space exploration.