September 16, 2026
China has postponed the launch of its advanced Chang’e-7 mission, which was set to take place in August. As part of the mission, scientists will look for water ice in permanently shadowed craters in the South Pole region of the moon. Permanently shadowed craters are deep craters that never receive sunlight and are extremely cold, with temperatures sometimes reaching lower than -200°C. Scientists plan to study the nature, location and quantity of water ice in such craters. The mission will use several advanced technologies and instruments, including a hopper that will enter the deep, dark craters, allowing scientists to examine these extreme regions. The mission will help scientists ascertain the potential of water ice as a resource for future lunar missions.
DID YOU KNOW?
Each year, the moon moves approximately 3.8cms farther from the Earth.
Image for representational purposes
