The Chinese lunar probe, Chang’e-6, has safely returned to Earth with precious samples from the unexplored far side of the Moon. This ambitious mission, completed in Inner Mongolia, was a risky endeavor that lasted nearly two months. Scientists are eager to study these samples as they may hold clues about how planets form.
China is the only country to have landed on the far side of the Moon, achieving this feat in 2019. This side of the moon is challenging to reach due to its distance from Earth and difficult terrain. The far side of the Moon holds significant interest for scientists because it may contain ice that can be used for water, oxygen, and hydrogen.
The success of Chang’e-6 marks a matter of national pride for China as they continue to increase their missions to the Moon and gain attention from the United States. Chinese President Xi Jinping commended the mission and emphasized the importance of continuing exploration of deep space.
Chang’e-6 launched from the space center in May and successfully landed near the Moon’s south pole after 53 days. Samples gathered by the probe will be brought to Beijing for further study. China has been investing heavily in its space program in hopes of sending a manned mission to the Moon by 2030 and building a base at its south pole. The US also has plans to return astronauts to the Moon by 2026 with their Artemis 3 mission. Analysts predict that future space exploration will center around claiming and controlling lunar resources.
