China postpones Chang'e-7 lunar mission beyond planned 2026 launch window

China said it has postponed the Chang'e-7 lunar mission because launch conditions were not met, ending its planned launch window this year. The China Manned Space Agency said the decision followed a comprehensive assessment but did not give a reason or replacement date. Preparations had been underway at Wenchang for the mission, which was intended to explore the lunar south pole, including permanently shadowed craters and potential water ice.