In a groundbreaking achievement, China’s Chang'e-6 mission has successfully collected the world’s first samples from the far side of the moon, marking a significant milestone in lunar exploration.
Yang Wei, a researcher at the Institute of Geology and Geophysics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), emphasized the mission's pivotal role in enhancing our understanding of lunar evolution. “The Chang'e-6 mission represents a significant milestone in the history of human lunar exploration, and it will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of lunar evolution,” Yang stated.
This historic endeavor is not just a testament to scientific prowess but also reflects the deep-rooted fascination with the moon in Chinese culture. “New samples will inevitably lead to new discoveries. Fascination with the moon is rooted in Chinese culture. Chinese scientists are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to contribute to lunar research,” Yang added.
First-Time Far Side Samples
Chang'e-6 has achieved what no lunar mission has done before by collecting samples from the moon’s far side. Li Xianhua, an academician at CAS, highlighted the global scientific community’s unprecedented interest in these samples. “The Chang'e-6 samples will be of great significance in studying the two-faced moon, which is crucial for understanding this celestial body,” Li explained.
The landing site, the Apollo Basin within the colossal South Pole–Aitken Basin, offers a unique geological landscape. “We have never conducted a detailed study of the South Pole–Aitken Basin before. The exact time of the impact that formed the basin and the consequences of the impact are subject to investigation,” Li noted.
The mission has provided access to materials from the lunar lower crust and upper mantle, previously difficult to obtain. “The Chang'e-6 samples are of great significance for our understanding of the formation and early evolution of the moon,” Li added.
Collaborative Scientific Endeavors
Since the beginning of the year, research teams have been actively engaged in preparing to analyze the samples. Weekly seminars and collaborative discussions with international experts underscore the mission’s openness and global significance. “We have organized a team for the research on the Chang'e-6 samples, and the venue was packed with many enthusiastic participants standing,” Li shared.
Key research areas include lunar asymmetry, deep crust composition, basin formation timelines, volcanic history, water content, and the discovery of new minerals or rocks.
Expanding Lunar Knowledge
Earlier samples from the Chang'e-5 mission have already attracted applications from international scholars. The Chang'e-6 mission, equipped with four international payloads, continues this collaborative spirit. “The openness of Chinese lunar exploration activities will be mirrored in the study of Chang'e-6 lunar samples,” Yang affirmed.
The moon’s far side, often referred to as the “dark side,” remains largely unexplored. Remote-sensing images reveal significant differences between the near and far sides, including crust thickness and magma activities. Lin Yangting, another scientist from CAS, stated, “Through the analysis and research of the Chang'e-6 samples, we could have a comprehensive understanding of the moon, filling many gaps in our knowledge and addressing significant scientific questions.”
With Chang'e-6’s successful sample collection, the mission not only builds on the foundation laid by Chang'e-5 but also propels lunar science into a new era, offering fresh insights into the moon’s complex geological history.
Reference(s):
Unraveling Chang'e-6: Chinese scientists eager to study lunar samples
cgtn.com
