China outlines ambitious space strategy to surpass US by 2050

China has unveiled a new space strategy aimed at becoming the leading space power, surpassing the United States. The "National Space Science Medium and Long-Term Development Plan" outlines goals for a lunar research station, resource exploitation, and a manned Mars mission. The plan is divided into three phases. The first phase focuses on technological development and unmanned lunar exploration until 2027. The second phase, from 2028 to 2035, aims for manned lunar landings and establishing a permanent base. The final phase, by 2050, envisions missions to other celestial bodies. China's recent achievements, including the Chang'e 6 mission, have strengthened its position in space exploration. The country plans to start groundwork for a lunar base by 2028 and aims for a manned Mars mission by 2031, contingent on the success of the upcoming Tianwen-3 mission.