China's lunar mission paves way for commercial space ventures in Moon race

For the first time, China’s space agency has allowed a commercial space company to participate in a lunar exploration mission, signaling a potential shift towards greater commercial involvement in lunar activities.

STAR.VISION Aerospace Group Limited, a company specializing in satellite design, AI data analysis, and intelligent satellite platforms, will collaborate with Zhejiang University (ZJU) and Türkiye’s Middle East Technical University (METU) to develop two 5-kilogram micro-exploration robots for the lunar surface, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

These robots are part of the Chang’e-8 mission, set to launch in 2028 aboard a Long March 5 rocket.

STAR.VISION is the first Chinese private enterprise granted permission by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) to join the lunar exploration program. In a statement on January 24, the company confirmed its role in the mission. ZJU will focus on engineering aspects, STAR.VISION will provide algorithms and components, and METU will contribute to the development of navigation systems and robotic subsystems.

METU’s involvement follows Türkiye’s application to join the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), highlighting China’s growing international collaboration.

The Chang’e-8 mission will serve as a test for in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) on the lunar south pole, with plans for future lunar habitation. ISRU involves using lunar resources like soil to create materials and consumables for sustainable living. Chang’e-8, along with the Chang’e-7 mission in 2026, will lay the groundwork for China’s larger ILRS project, set for construction in the 2030s.

STAR.VISION’s participation marks a significant step in China’s space program, opening the door for private companies to engage in national lunar missions. This move aligns with China’s ongoing expansion of commercial space ventures, following last year’s focus on commercial space as a priority.

The country could eventually allow commercial entities to pursue their own lunar missions. Additionally, the Chang’e-8 mission will include another robot through an international partnership led by Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). The robot will support lunar exploration and scientific tasks, boosting operational efficiency with its wireless charging capabilities.

By Vafa Guliyeva