Okay, here’s a revised and fact-checked version of the provided text, incorporating corrections and updated details based on web searches as of today, January 10, 2026. I’ve focused on verifying dates, project names, and the accuracy of reported events. I’ve also cleaned up some awkward phrasing.
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## China’s Space Program: Updates on CZ-10, Mengzhou, and Lunar Missions
Source:
Construction continues at the Wenchang cosmodrome in preparation for the launches of the CZ-10A and CZ-10 launch vehicles. Recent observations show progress on the lightning protection system for Launch Complex 301. A photo from November 13th showed the assembly of the second of four lightning rods near the launch ramp. By December 16th, construction was underway on the third and fourth rods. The service tower, now structurally complete, had its tall assembly crane removed.
Construction of the assembly buildings for the CZ-10A and CZ-10 rockets has reached roof level, as seen in a photo from December 6th.
The flight test of the launch vehicle’s escape system at maximum dynamic pressure (Max Q), originally planned by the China Manned Space Governance (CMSA) for late 2025, has been postponed to 2026. New signage at Wenchang confirms the revised test date. this test will simulate a launch vehicle failure during flight and evaluate the trajectory and controllability of the mengzhou spacecraft. The specific rocket to be used for this test remains undisclosed.
an uncrewed test flight of the Mengzhou spacecraft to the Chinese Space Station (CSS) is currently scheduled for later in 2026.The first orbital flight of the CZ-10 rocket, utilizing its two-stage side boosters, is anticipated in 2027. China’s planned crewed lunar mission,comparable to NASA’s Artemis II,remains targeted for 2028,according to previously released plans.
Sources of information:
https://www.space.com/china-moon-landing-plans-artemis-rival
https://spacenews.com/china-delays-crew-dragon-like-capsule-test-flight/
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202512/1304341.shtml
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2025/12/china-wenchang-cz-10-mengzhou-progress/
Image sources: Worth a look