The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has been appointed by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) to lead an ambitious international project known as the “Hong Kong Operation Robot” for the upcoming Chang’E-8 mission. This initiative aims to unite global aerospace scholars and experts in the development of a highly advanced, multi-functional lunar surface operation robot. Set to support China’s lunar exploration efforts, this robot will feature a mobile charging station and the capability for dexterous operations.
To facilitate this international collaboration, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has established the Hong Kong Space Robotics and Energy Center (HKSREC). This center will spearhead the project, fostering partnerships among academic and research institutions both within Hong Kong and globally. The “Hong Kong Operation Robot” will be developed through a cooperative effort that emphasizes cross-institutional and cross-regional collaboration, enhancing innovation across the entire aerospace technology lifecycle—from conceptualization to system integration.
Scheduled for launch around 2029, the Chang’E-8 probe represents the fourth phase of China’s lunar exploration program. Its mission is to contribute to the establishment of a future International Lunar Research Station. Upon landing at the lunar south pole, the spacecraft will deploy a suite of international surface robots, including the “Hong Kong Operation Robot,” tasked with conducting vital scientific research.
The robot, designed by HKUST’s interdisciplinary teams, aims to excel in the Moon’s extreme environment, showcasing unprecedented performance and precision. Prof. Tim Cheng Kwang-Ting, Vice-President for Research and Development at HKUST, noted the rapid advancements in China’s aerospace sector and emphasized Hong Kong’s unique position to contribute to these efforts. He stated, “Through participation in the Chang’E-8 mission and various other initiatives, HKUST is actively contributing to the international growth of China’s aerospace program.”
At the helm of the project is Prof. Gao Yang, a leading expert in space robotics and the Director of HKSREC. He is responsible for designing the robot’s “operational brain,” which will include dual robotic arms—an innovation that marks a global first in deep space exploration. These arms will enable the robot to perform tasks such as deploying and installing instruments and collecting lunar surface samples. After the Chang’E-8 probe lands, the robot will transport additional instruments to their designated locations.
The lunar south pole presents a unique and challenging landscape, characterized by rugged terrain and drastic elevation changes. To navigate this environment, the robot must demonstrate real-time perception of the lunar surface, autonomous path planning, and operation under extreme temperature variations. These requirements present significant design challenges, which HKUST’s research team is addressing by developing an AI-powered operational framework. This innovative system will allow the robot to dynamically adjust its autonomy levels based on real-time conditions, thus enhancing situational awareness and adaptability.
Prof. Gao expressed his enthusiasm for leading this critical mission, stating, “This reflects HKUST’s recognized strengths in research and international project coordination.” He highlighted that the HKSREC will build foundational capabilities in aerospace technology while cultivating high-caliber talent, thereby advancing Hong Kong’s position in the global aerospace landscape.
Several core members of the HKSREC are spearheading key aspects of the robot’s development. Prof. Duan Molong, a robotics control expert, focuses on the robot’s manipulation systems. He emphasized the challenges posed by the lunar environment, which includes extreme temperatures and radiation exposure. His team’s dual-arm robotic system aims to transform the robot into a versatile mobile platform capable of precise sample acquisition and payload deployment.
The integration of mobility and control systems is another critical focus, led by Prof. Shi Ling, an expert in robot path planning. He noted that achieving true autonomous operations requires intelligent decision-making under strict constraints. His team is developing a hierarchical planning system to optimize task prioritization and path efficiency, enabling the robot to adapt to unforeseen obstacles.
Managing the robot’s thermal conditions is essential for its performance. Prof. Walter Wang Zhe, a thermal control system expert, is working on a sophisticated thermal management system. He explained that his team is utilizing advanced materials and controlled fluid loops to ensure the robot’s core components remain within a safe operating temperature range during the lunar day and night.
Finally, Prof. Sun Qingping, Chair Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at HKUST, is contributing an experimental payload designed to validate next-generation thermal management technologies in the space environment. He emphasized the importance of testing new materials and cooling strategies in the actual lunar environment to facilitate future extended missions.
The “Hong Kong Operation Robot” represents a significant advancement in lunar exploration technology and highlights HKUST’s world-class research capabilities. This collaborative effort, involving over 100 interdisciplinary researchers from around the world, is set to solidify Hong Kong’s role in national aerospace initiatives. This initiative showcases the convergence of intelligent operation, precision control, adaptive planning, and resilient engineering, pushing the boundaries of human exploration on the Moon.
