Who is the moon goddess in Chinese mythology?

The moon goddess in Chinese mythology is Chang'e. She is one of the best-known figures in Chinese mythology and is associated with the Moon, immortality, longing, and the annual Mid-Autumn Festival.

In the best-known legend, Chang'e was the wife of Hou Yi, the archer who shot down nine of ten suns scorching the world. Hou Yi received an elixir of immortality but kept it rather than taking it alone. In one popular version, Chang'e swallowed the potion while escaping an intruder and rose to the Moon, where she became immortal.

Stories differ on whether Chang'e stole the elixir or acted to prevent it from being taken by force. These variations explain why she can appear either tragic, determined, or morally ambiguous. She is commonly said to live in a lunar palace with the Jade Rabbit, who is associated with preparing the elixir of life.

The Mid-Autumn Festival links her legend with moon-viewing, family gatherings, mooncakes, and wishes for reunion. China’s lunar-exploration program also uses her name: Chang'e 1 launched in 2007.