After the CSS has finished construction, subsequent expansion will add a core module to it. CSS would become a cross shape configuration. A next generation manned spacecraft will replace Shenzhou spacecraft. The new spacecraft will be able to ferry 4-7 astronuats to the CSS, and carry up to 700 kg of payload back to Earth, compared to 50 kg capacity for Shenzhou. CSS will carry out scientific tasks emcompassing 4 category, 32 themes, 65 projects and over a thousand experiments. The Xuntian telescope will spend a decade to scan the whole sky, to carry out astronomical, dark matter study etc Other applied science research such as special material, astrobiology, high precision timer system, quantum study etc. will also be carried out.

In the lunar programme, three astronauts will be sent on lunar landing mission, with two actually landing on the lunar surface. Lunar sample return, lunar station and Mars exploration will be in future prospect.

Model of the lunar lander and spacecraft.

The lunar spacecraft reentry module separated from the service module.