China Plans to Launch a Lunar Surface Robot with Charging Capabilities in the ‘Chang’e-8’ Mission in 2028

Chinese scientists plan to develop a lunar surface robot equipped with charging capabilities for the “Chang’e-8” mission, which is scheduled for launch in 2028 with the goal of landing on the moon.
In a statement, Yue Xiao Zhou, the research team leader from Dalian University of Technology and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, explained that “the multifunctional robot will be designed to also serve as a mobile charging station. It will weigh around 100 kilograms and be capable of conducting complex experiments in the harsh lunar environment, in addition to accompanying the lunar landing vehicle and monitoring its operational status.”
The China National Space Administration has approved the inclusion of the surface robot in the “Chang’e-8” mission, according to a press release issued by Dalian University of Technology this week.
The project aims to address technical challenges such as adapting to the extremely low temperatures at the moon’s south pole and carrying out tasks like navigation, positioning, and movement independently, without relying on satellite navigation systems. Both the “Chang’e-8” and “Chang’e-7” probes will serve as the foundation for a future lunar research station project.
The “Chang’e-7” probe is expected to be launched in 2026 to explore resources at the moon’s south pole.