China has announced its first long-term roadmap, setting out its vision for the future of space science and exploration.

China’s space program has made great progress since the early 2000s. Steps such as developing heavy launch vehicles, establishing a modular space station in Earth orbit, and conducting six robotic lunar missions since 2007 are the cornerstones of this progress, while the Chang’e lunar exploration program, Paving the way for manned missions to the moon by 2030 and aims to establish a permanent base around the moon’s south pole. China too Organize manned missions to Mars by 2033 and plans to build a permanent base there as well.

China plans a three-phase development process

“National Medium- and Long-Term Development Plan for Space Sciences (2024-2050)” published by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), China National Space Administration (CNSA) and China Manned Space Agency (CMSE), Targeted developments in space science and exploration by 2050 details.

The plan covers five major scientific themes, including the origin and evolution of the universe, the detection of gravitational waves, the study of the solar system, the discovery of habitable planets and the advancement of biological and physical sciences in space, through a three-phase development process .

In the first phase (2024-2027), the Tiangong Space Station will continue operations, manned missions to the moon will be carried out, and the Chang’e program will be expanded. In the second phase (2028-2035), construction of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) will begin and the number of space missions will increase. In the third phase (2036-2050), China is planned to become a world leader in space research. In line with this plan, China wants to seek answers to important questions in space research and become a strong rival to NASA.

So what do you think about this issue? Do you think China can rival NASA? You can share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.