China’s Mengzhou spacecraft passes key test for 2030 crewed moon mission with Long March 10 rocket

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Victoria BelaFebruary 11, 2026 at 04:58 AM

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China successfully conducted a key safety test of its Mengzhou crew carrier and debuted its Long March 10 rocket on Wednesday, advancing its plans for a crewed moon mission by 2030. The escape test, conducted after a ground-level test in June, aimed to ensure astronaut safety during launch by simulating an emergency return to Earth. The uncrewed Mengzhou vessel launched from the Wenchang Satellite Launch Centre aboard a Long March 10 prototype. Shortly after liftoff, the vessel separated from the rocket and splashed down in the ocean at its designated landing spot. This test marks a significant step in China's lunar exploration program.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Xinhua 40% Earth 50% Hainan 50% Wenchang Satellite Launch Centre 60% Moon ×270% Mengzhou ×380% Long March 10 ×385% China ×290%

Keywords

crewed moon mission 100% china 90% mengzhou spacecraft 80% space programme 80% long march 10 rocket 80% escape test 70% astronauts 60% launch 50% wenchang satellite launch centre 40%