China's Ambitious Lunar Plans: Astronauts, 3D Printing, and Moon Bases by 2030

China is set to land astronauts on the moon by 2030, according to Wu Weiren, chief designer of China's lunar exploration program. The country is already developing the necessary hardware for the mission, including a next-generation rocket and lunar lander. China is also planning to build a permanent base, the International Lunar Research Station, in the 2030s and is seeking international partners for the venture. The country is also conducting robotic missions to the lunar south pole to test 3D printing technology for creating Lego-like bricks from lunar soil.