Robotic Exploration at the Lunar South Pole: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Lunar South Pole and Deciphering the Uniqueness and Challenges of Lunar Robotic Exploration

The lunar south pole has become a focal point for scientific and strategic exploration. Recent remote sensing has revealed potential water ice in its permanently shadowed regions, presenting promising opportunities for future lunar outposts and habitats. Many countries have planned missions to explore the area: China will launch the Chang’e-7 mission in 2026 and Chang’e-8 in 2029, laying the foundation for the International Lunar Research Station. NASA will also send astronauts through its Artemis III and IV missions, with a key objective of searching for water ice to support future human habitation.

During the 2025/26 school year, PolyU is launching a space-themed education programme entitled “Building the Future: Robotics for the International Lunar Research Station”. In line with the Chief Executive’s 2025 policy to advance aerospace science and technology, the programme leverages PolyU’s advances in space research to inspire creativity and passion for space exploration among secondary school students. Through an expert-led public lecture and interactive Lunar Robot Design Competition, students will learn firsthand about the challenges and opportunities in conducting research on the lunar south pole.