China's lunar exploration program has made systematic advancements across scientific research, technological innovation, engineering development and international collaboration over the past two decades, Wu Weiren, the chief designer of China's lunar exploration program, told Xinhua.

Wu made the remarks in an interview on Tuesday at the opening of an exhibition at the National Museum of China, which highlights two decades of the country's lunar exploration program.

Looking ahead, Wu said that China plans to launch the Chang'e-7 mission around 2026 to explore the environment and resources of the south pole of the moon. The Chang'e-8 mission, set for around 2028, will conduct experiments for the in-situ utilization of lunar resources.

He revealed that scientists are developing a solar-powered device capable of melting lunar soil at temperatures of 1,400 to 1,500 degrees Celsius to produce "lunar bricks" through 3D printing -- an essential step toward constructing a future lunar research station.