China Unveils ‘Tansuo’ Lunar Rover And ‘Wangyu’ Spacesuit For Upcoming Moon Mission

China has taken a significant step towards its goal of landing astronauts on the moon before the end of the decade. On 12 February, the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced the official names for two key components of its lunar mission: the “Tansuo” lunar rover and “Wangyu” spacesuit.

The names, selected through a public contest that drew over 9,000 submissions, reflect China’s ambitions in space exploration. “Tansuo” translates to “to explore”, fitting for the unpressurised lunar rover designed to carry two astronauts across the moon’s surface. Meanwhile, “Wangyu” means “gazing into the cosmos”, echoing the spirit of the mission and continuing the theme set by China’s current “Feitian” spacesuits, which are used for spacewalks aboard the Tiangong space station.

‘Tansuo’ – A Rover Built For Lunar Exploration

CMSA has confirmed that development of the Tansuo lunar rover is advancing steadily. “The prototype we made has completed experiments in a simulated lunar surface test site and has also carried out a large amount of experimental work in a field test site,” said Zhang Chongfeng, a spacecraft designer with CMSA, during an interview with China Central Television (CCTV).

The rover, currently in the prototype stage, is undergoing detailed design work and engineering tests. Its primary function will be to transport astronauts across the moon’s surface, supporting exploration activities during China’s first crewed lunar mission.

‘Wangyu’ – Spacesuit Tailored For The Moon’s Harsh Environment

The Wangyu spacesuit represents China’s latest technological leap in spacewear. Lighter and more compact than previous designs, it has been engineered to withstand the moon’s harsh conditions. “During the early stages of development, we have mastered key technologies such as the manufacture of lightweight and smaller-sized moon-landing spacesuits, as well as comprehensive protection against complex environments,” explained Zhang Wanxin, director of the spacesuit engineering office at the China Astronaut Research and Training Center.

The suit is now undergoing comprehensive performance assessments to ensure its reliability during lunar surface operations.

Naming China’s Lunar Hardware – Public Engagement In Space Exploration

The naming of Tansuo and Wangyu is part of a broader effort by CMSA to engage the public in China’s space endeavours. The agency previously invited name suggestions for other key mission hardware, resulting in the selection of “Mengzhou” (“Dream Vessel”) for the crew spacecraft and “Lanyue” (“Embracing the moon”) for the lunar lander.

Infrastructure And Hardware Development Progressing

To support its ambitious lunar programme, China has completed several ground facilities and production centres. Testing infrastructure is operational, and construction at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site on Hainan Island is progressing as scheduled, according to CCTV.

China aims to join the United States as the only nations to have successfully conducted crewed lunar landings. With the 2030 target drawing closer, the unveiling of the Tansuo lunar rover and Wangyu spacesuit marks another milestone on that journey.