China’s space agency has approved a new batch of lunar sample research applications, opening the door for scientists around the world to study moon rocks collected by its Chang’e-5 and Chang’e-6 missions.
The Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center under the China National Space Administration announced that 8,550.4 milligrams of lunar samples will be distributed to 18 researchers from 16 institutions. These include the China University of Geosciences (Beijing), the University of Hong Kong, the Macau University of Science and Technology, Beihang University, and Wuhan University.
In a historic achievement, the Chang’e-6 mission collected 1,935.3 grams of samples from the far side of the moon—the first time in human history. Previously, the Chang’e-5 mission retrieved about 1,731 grams of lunar samples.
“China maintains a positive and open attitude and welcomes scientists from all countries to submit applications in accordance with the relevant procedures,” said Ge Ping, deputy director of the Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center.
Since July 2021, China has delivered seven batches of lunar samples to research institutions. Scientists have been using these samples to explore the moon’s surface processes, volcanic activity, evolution, and mineral and volatile compositions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
