China's Chang'e-7 lunar probe arrives at launch site ahead of mission

China's Chang'e-7 lunar probe has reached its launch site ahead of a planned liftoff in the second half of 2026.

The probe, carrying instruments designed for high-precision lunar landing and exploration of the moon's south pole, arrived at the Wenchang Space Launch Site on south China's Hainan Island on Thursday after being transported by air and ground, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

The Chang'e-7 mission aims to achieve breakthroughs in several key technologies, including legged walking, lunar surface flying and exploration of permanently shadowed craters. The spacecraft will use a combination of orbiting, landing, roving and flying techniques to conduct comprehensive exploration of the lunar south pole environment and its resources.

International cooperation is also planned as part of the mission.

The Wenchang launch site has confirmed that all facilities and equipment are in good condition, with pre-launch testing and preparation work progressing as scheduled.

The mission represents a deeper integration of China's manned lunar exploration and unmanned lunar probe programs, utilizing capabilities and experience accumulated over decades through the country's manned space and Chang'e missions.