China unveils roadmap for space science development till 2050

(ECNS) -- China unveiled a national mid- and long-term development program for space science on Tuesday.

The plan was jointly released by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), the National Space Administration, and the China Manned Space Agency.

Ding Chibiao, CAS vice president, introduced at a press conference that the plan includes three phases.

The first phase, until 2027, includes operating the Chinese space station, implementing manned lunar exploration, the fourth phase of lunar exploration, and planetary exploration programs, as well as validating and launching 5-8 space science satellite missions.

The second phase, from 2028 to 2035, continues to operate the Chinese space station, validates and implements manned lunar exploration and scientific missions related to the International Lunar Research Station, and validates approximately 15 space science satellite missions.

The third phase, from 2036 to 2050, aims to validate and implement over 30 space science missions, achieving world-leading levels in key areas.