Thai Science Research Equipment Wins Platinum Award for Lunar Mission Role
Thailand’s National Astronomy Institute (NARIT) has been awarded the Platinum Award for its CE-7 Match research, a crucial piece of equipment set to play a vital role in upcoming lunar missions. The award, a royal trophy presented by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, recognizes the importance of Thailand’s contribution to international space exploration efforts.
Thailand’s Lunar Contribution: The CE-7 Match
The Moon Aiming Thai China Hodoscope (Match) is a science research payload designed to measure high-energy charged particles and study cosmic rays in space (NARIT). This equipment will be installed on the Chang Er-7 spacecraft, operating under the China National Space Administration’s (CNSA) International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project.
Did You Know? The ILRS is envisioned as a permanent, crew-tended research base on the moon, facilitating a wide range of scientific studies.
Currently, the prototype is undergoing rigorous testing to ensure seamless integration with the Chang Er-7 system. virtual and real models are being assembled to simulate the harsh conditions of lunar orbit.
Collaboration and Development
The development of this space measurement equipment is a collaborative effort between NARIT, led by dr. Peerapong Torthika, and Mahidol University, led by Dr. David Roffol. This marks the first instance of Thai-developed scientific equipment being deployed for a lunar mission.
Pro Tip: International collaborations are becoming increasingly important in space exploration, allowing nations to pool resources and expertise.
the original prototype, or Flight Model, is scheduled for delivery and installation with Chang E-7 in July 2025, with the spacecraft expected to enter lunar orbit around August 2026.

Thailand Research Expo 2025 Award
The Platinum award was presented at the Thailand Research Expo 2025, recognizing outstanding research and innovation. This year’s awards included 2 Platinum Awards, 4 Gold Awards, 6 Silver Awards, 8 Bronze Awards, and 10 consolation awards.
The Moon Aiming Thai Chinese Hodoscope (Match) received a royal trophy from Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, along with a prize of 150,000 baht and a certificate.
Timeline of the Mission
| Milestone | date |
|---|---|
| Delivery of Flight Model to Chang E-7 | July 2025 |
| Chang E-7 Enters Lunar Orbit | august 2026 |
The Growing Role of International Collaboration in Space Exploration
Space exploration is no longer the sole domain of a few powerful nations. International collaborations are becoming increasingly vital, allowing countries to share resources, expertise, and risks. Projects like the International Space Station (ISS) and the upcoming Lunar Gateway demonstrate the power of global partnerships in pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and technological advancement (NASA).
Thailand’s involvement in the Chang E-7 mission exemplifies this trend, showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in space research and its commitment to contributing to global scientific endeavors. As space exploration becomes more complex and aspiring, these collaborations will be essential for achieving shared goals and unlocking the mysteries of the universe.
Frequently Asked Questions About the thai Lunar Mission
- What is the primary goal of the CE-7 Match equipment?
- The CE-7 Match aims to measure high-energy charged particles and study cosmic rays in space while orbiting the moon.
- How does this mission contribute to deep space exploration?
- This mission serves as a foundation for future deep space surveys by providing valuable data on the lunar environment and cosmic radiation.
- What is the significance of the Platinum Award?
- The Platinum Award recognizes the outstanding research and innovation behind the CE-7 Match equipment and its potential impact on space exploration.
- What are the next steps for the CE-7 Match project?
- The next steps involve delivering the Flight Model to the Chang E-7 spacecraft and preparing for its launch into lunar orbit.
- How can I learn more about Thailand’s space program?
- You can visit the National Astronomical Research Institute (NARIT) website for more information on thier projects and initiatives.
What other international collaborations do you find exciting in the realm of space exploration? How do you think smaller countries can play a bigger role in space research?
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