Launch Delayed Due to Weather
The China National Space Administration (CNSA) has postponed the launch of the Chang'e 7 mission to the Moon's south pole because of adverse weather conditions at the Wenchang launch site. An approaching storm is bringing strong winds and rain, which violate the safety constraints required for a rocket launch.
Chang'e 7 aims to be the first mission to specifically search for water ice in the permanently shadowed craters near the lunar south pole. The mission architecture includes an orbiter, a lander and a rover that will work together to characterize the surface and subsurface environment.
Originally slated for late October 2025, the launch was scrubbed after forecasts indicated a growing likelihood of thunderstorms and gusty winds. Launch officials decided to halt the countdown and evaluate a new launch window.
As of now, CNSA has not announced a revised launch date. The agency said it will continue to monitor the weather and reschedule the flight as soon as conditions fall back within acceptable limits.