A lunar south-pole research base initiated by China with Russia and other partners. Per the current planning status, a basic model is targeted for 2035, with an extended model to follow in the 2040s.
As of: 01 Jun 2026.
plannedLunar research station · south pole
International Lunar Research Station (ILRS)
国际月球科研站
As of: 01/06/2026Planned: basic model by ~2035
Source/Licence: placeholder image – to be cleared
Overview
Quick facts
- Status
- planned
- Planned
- basic model by ~2035
- Operator
- CNSA, together with Roscosmos (Russia) and other partners
Mission goals
- Building a permanent robotic — and later potentially crewed — research station at the lunar south pole
- An international cooperation platform alongside/complementing Western-led lunar programs
Timeline / milestones
- ~2035Planned completion of the basic model
- 2040sPlanned extended build-out stage
Scientific results / significance
The ILRS is designed as a long-term program spanning multiple missions (Chang'e-7/8 and more), positioning China and its partners as an independent pole in the international race for the lunar south pole.
Video
— No verified video link yet.