China, Thailand sign pacts on outer space, lunar outposts

By Reuters April 5, 2024 | 12:53 am PT

Visitors examine a model of China's lunar rover at an exhibition of achievements in space and deep-sea sciences in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, in May, 2021. Photo by China National Space Administration

China and Thailand signed initial pacts on Friday to co-operate on peaceful use of outer space and international lunar research stations, the Chinese space agency said.

The countries aim to form a joint working group on space exploration and applications, encompassing data exchanges and personnel training, according to the memorandums of understanding.

They also agreed to co-operate on plans for appraising, engineering and managing lunar research stations, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) said in a statement.

In 2023, China selected a space weather monitor developed by Thailand for its Chang'e-7 lunar probe mission, the agency added.

To be launched around 2026, the Chang'e-7 mission will explore resources on the moon's south pole, looking to sustain long-term human habitation. China aims to land astronauts on the moon by 2030.