Chang'e 8

Chang'e 8 is a planned Chinese lunar exploration mission that is part of the Chang'e program. Its primary objectives include conducting in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) experiments, particularly focusing on 3D printing using lunar soil. Chang'e 8 is intended to verify technologies necessary for establishing a permanent lunar research station, potentially located in the lunar south polar region. The mission is expected to collect data on the lunar environment and composition. It will likely involve deploying multiple instruments, including a lander and possibly a rover, to perform these experiments. The mission's development is closely linked to international collaboration and the broader Chinese lunar exploration roadmap. The planned launch date is projected for the late 2020s, potentially around 2028, following the Chang'e 7 mission. The specific landing site will be determined based on the scientific goals of the mission and the results obtained from previous lunar probes.