Chief designer discloses China's Phase-4 lunar probe plans
China will press ahead with the fourth phase of its lunar exploration program in all respects this year, and it is expected to complete the basic structure for the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) on the moon’s south pole via the Chang’e-7 and -8 probe missions during this decade, said Wu Weiren, the chief designer of China's lunar exploration program. Wu told state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) on Monday that the Phase-4 missions shall consist of Chang’e-6, -7 and -8.