The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has been appointed by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) to lead the international “Hong Kong Operation Robot” project, part of the upcoming Chang’E-8 lunar mission. This initiative aims to unite global aerospace scholars and experts to develop a multi-functional lunar surface operation robot, which is expected to significantly enhance China’s lunar exploration capabilities.
The robot will be equipped with a mobile charging station and designed for dexterous operations, making it a crucial element in the country’s efforts to establish a future International Lunar Research Station. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is supporting this endeavor by establishing the Hong Kong Space Robotics and Energy Center (HKSREC), which will facilitate cross-institutional and cross-regional collaboration. Under HKUST’s leadership, the project will involve partnerships with academic and research institutions in Hong Kong, mainland China, and abroad.
Scheduled for launch around 2029, the Chang’E-8 mission is set to advance the objectives of China’s fourth lunar exploration phase. The spacecraft will target the lunar south pole, deploying a suite of international surface robots, including the Hong Kong Operation Robot, to conduct essential scientific research. The interdisciplinary teams at HKUST are focused on developing a robot that can operate effectively in the Moon’s extreme environment, demonstrating high performance, precision, and advanced capabilities.
Prof. Tim Cheng Kwang-Ting, HKUST’s Vice-President for Research and Development, emphasized the momentum of China’s aerospace sector, stating, “Hong Kong is actively advancing the development of aerospace science and technology and bolstering the space economy.” He added that HKUST is leveraging its strengths in artificial intelligence, robotics, materials science, and thermal engineering to translate research outcomes into practical applications.
Innovative Robotics for Lunar Exploration
Leading the project is Prof. Gao Yang, an internationally recognized expert in space robotics and the Director of HKSREC. He is responsible for designing the robot’s operational systems, which will feature dual robotic arms, a first for deep space exploration. This capability will allow the robot to deploy instruments, collect lunar surface samples, and transport tools to various locations on the Moon.
The lunar south pole presents unique challenges due to its rugged terrain, which includes impact craters and extreme temperature variations. The robot must possess real-time perception capabilities and autonomous path planning to navigate this harsh environment, which can experience temperature fluctuations between +120°C and -180°C. To address these challenges, HKUST’s research team is developing an AI-powered operational framework that will enable the robot to adapt to real-time conditions, ensuring safe and efficient operation throughout the mission.
Prof. Gao remarked, “I am honored to lead this national mission with outstanding teams from Hong Kong and beyond. This reflects HKUST’s recognized strengths in research and project coordination.”
Addressing Complex Environmental Challenges
Several key faculty members are contributing their expertise to overcome the project’s challenges. Prof. Duan Molong, a robotics control expert, is responsible for developing the robot’s manipulation systems. He highlighted the difficulties posed by the lunar environment, including extreme temperatures, radiation, and dust. His dual-arm robotic system aims to enhance sample acquisition and payload deployment, transforming the robot into a versatile platform for lunar science.
Prof. Shi Ling, who specializes in robot path planning, is focused on ensuring seamless integration between the robot’s mobility and control systems. He noted that autonomous operation requires intelligent decision-making under strict constraints, and his team is developing a hierarchical planning system to optimize task prioritization.
Meanwhile, Prof. Walter Wang Zhe is addressing the thermal challenges posed by the Moon’s environment. He is developing an advanced thermal management system to keep the robot’s core components within a safe operating temperature range. Additionally, Prof. Sun Qingping is contributing an experimental payload that will test next-generation thermal technologies in space.
The Hong Kong Operation Robot signifies a substantial advancement in lunar exploration technology and underscores HKUST’s world-class research capabilities. This collaborative project, involving over 100 interdisciplinary researchers globally, aims to solidify Hong Kong’s pivotal role in national aerospace missions. By merging intelligent operation, precision control, and resilient engineering, this initiative is set to push the boundaries of human exploration on the Moon, paving the way for future deep space missions.
