ILRS may expand collaboration with Azerbaijan in space

China's International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) may expand cooperation opportunities with Azerbaijan in the space sector, Lin Fei, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Center of the Innovation Center for Deep Space Research at the China National Space Administration said at the Space Technology Conference (STC2025) held in Baku.

Report quotes Lin Fei as saying since 2004, China has successfully completed nine missions within the lunar program, covering the stages of orbital entry, landing, and returning samples to Earth: "Last year, for the first time, samples were collected from the invisible far side of the Moon and brought back to Earth. Currently, we are entering a new phase in lunar exploration. The main goal in this phase is to expand scientific and technological cooperation opportunities with other countries, along with using resources and building infrastructure."

The official noted that one of the most important initiatives to be implemented in this framework is the International Lunar Research Station project: "The station will be located on the lunar surface and in orbit, and will create opportunities for energy supply, communication, scientific research, resource utilization, and technological testing. The project is open to international cooperation, and there are possibilities for Azerbaijan to participate in this initiative in the future."

He added that Azerbaijan is taking serious steps in the space sector: "International partnerships are being established through Azerbaijan’s Space Agency (Azercosmos), satellite missions and technological research are expanding. Such projects offer new opportunities in terms of gaining technological experience, participating in scientific research, and strengthening strategic partnerships."