# China’s new moon mission could unlock secrets of lunar ice: Why it matters

https://mins.news/en/item/29088

- Al Jazeera, 2026-08-22 05:36 UTC
- Science
- Original: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/8/22/chinas-new-moon-mission-could-unlock-secret-of-lunar-ice-why-that-matters?traffic_source=rss

> China is preparing to launch the Chang’e-7 robotic mission, possibly as early as August 24, to search for ice water in permanently shadowed craters near the moon’s south pole. Its orbiter, lander, rover and hopper will examine where the water is, how deep and accessible it may be, and what form it takes. Lunar water could support future crewed missions with drinking water, oxygen and fuel while offering clues about the origins of Earth’s oceans.

## Related coverage

- [China delays Chang’e-7 lunar mission: Why the moon’s south pole matters](https://mins.news/en/video/30165) — CNA, 2026-08-24
- [China abruptly delays ambitious Chang’e-7 mission to find water ice on moon](https://mins.news/en/item/29855) — France 24, 2026-08-23
- [China hunts for lunar ice in one of the solar system’s coldest places](https://mins.news/en/item/27885) — Reuters, 2026-08-21