Synopsis
This policy brief, titled “Racing to the Moon: China’s Lunar exploration program in competition with the United States,” outlines the renewed interest in lunar exploration by China and the United States, drawing parallels to the Cold War-era space race. Unlike the 1960s race, the current competition focuses on establishing a long-term scientific presence on the Moon.
China’s Lunar Exploration Program
China’s lunar program, known as the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program (CLEP), began in 2004 with three primary goals: orbiting the Moon, landing on its surface, and returning samples. Significant achievements include the Chang’e 3, 4, and 5 missions, with Chang’e 3 marking China’s first lunar landing, Chang’e 4 being the first-ever landing on the Moon’s far side, and Chang’e 5 returning samples to Earth. Future missions aim to construct a lunar research station near the South Pole.
The International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project, initially a joint China-Russia initiative, is now primarily driven by China due to Russia’s reduced reliability and diplomatic appeal post the Ukraine conflict. The ILRS roadmap has evolved, showing a stronger Chinese influence in its development.
United States’ Lunar Program
The United States, through NASA, has initiated the Artemis program, with a focus on returning to the Moon and establishing a sustained presence. The Artemis I mission was an unmanned test, and subsequent missions plan to send a human crew around and to the Moon. The program includes significant technological developments such as the Space Launch System (SLS) and collaborations with private companies like SpaceX.
Technical and Diplomatic Challenges
Both countries face significant technical challenges, including developing heavy launchers, crewed spacecraft, and lunar landers. China’s Long March rockets and the upcoming Long March 10 and 9, and the U.S.’s SLS and SpaceX’s Starship, are central to their respective lunar ambitions.
On the diplomatic front, both countries are seeking international cooperation. While China has secured partnerships with several countries for the ILRS, the U.S. has gained substantial support through the Artemis Accords, signed by numerous experienced space powers.
Summary
China is committed to its lunar exploration goals, with or without Russia, aiming for international prestige and strategic competition. However, the U.S. maintains a significant technological and diplomatic lead. The future of lunar exploration is characterized by intense competition, technological innovation, and the pursuit of international partnerships, with implications extending well beyond 2030.
