A new blueprint from researchers working on China’s lunar base project suggests that robotic 'watchdogs' could play a central role in future moon missions. The proposed concept outlines a collaborative environment where three astronauts work alongside intelligent machines to manage the station's daily operations.

According to the researchers, these robot dogs would be tasked with patrolling the perimeter of the lunar base, scouting for potential hazards, and assisting human crew members in identifying and collecting scientifically valuable rock samples. The design aims to increase the efficiency of lunar exploration by allowing one astronaut to remotely direct two robotic units across the lunar landscape while other crew members focus on specialized scientific tasks.

While the report details the functional benefits of these robots—such as their ability to traverse difficult terrain that might be dangerous for humans—it does not provide a specific timeline for when such technology might be integrated into actual lunar missions. The proposal remains a conceptual framework at this stage, reflecting China's ongoing efforts to establish a permanent human presence on the moon. The integration of autonomous systems is viewed by the research team as a necessary step to mitigate risks to human explorers and maximize the scientific output of long-term lunar stays.