China Invites Researchers to Study Historic Moon Samples from Chang'e 6 Mission
In a groundbreaking move for lunar exploration, China's National Space Administration (CNSA) has opened its first round of applications for researchers to study the samples collected by the Chang'e 6 mission from the far side of the Moon. Launched last May, the mission successfully returned to Earth in late June 2023, bringing back 1,935 grams of lunar material from the Apollo crater—a region untouched by previous missions.
A Milestone in Lunar Exploration
This initiative marks a historic milestone as it is the first time samples from the Moon's far side are accessible for scientific study. The far side, often referred to as the dark side due to it being unseen from Earth, presents unique geological features and potentially holds secrets about the Moon's formation and evolution.
Scientific Community Eager to Explore
The samples, which preliminary analysis suggests are less dense than those from the near side, could challenge existing theories on lunar geology. Researchers are particularly interested in understanding the significant differences in composition between the Moon's two sides, which could provide insights into the Moon's volcanic history, surface age, and the impact processes it has undergone.
Application Details and International Prospects
The application window for Chinese researchers closes on November 22, 2023. While initially restricted to domestic scientists, CNSA has plans to open access to international researchers in two years, following the precedent set by the Chang'e 5 mission which made its samples available globally nearly three years after collection.
Legal and International Collaboration
Despite legal restrictions that limit direct cooperation in space between China and the U.S., NASA scientists are also eligible to apply for these samples, following the pathway established with previous missions. This could lead to significant collaborations despite geopolitical tensions.
Parallel Opportunity with Chang'e 5
Concurrently, the deadline for the seventh round of applications to study samples from the Chang'e 5 mission, which collected from the Moon's near side, also falls on November 22, 2023. This presents a dual opportunity for researchers to delve into comparative studies of lunar materials.
This initiative by CNSA not only fosters scientific discovery but also sets a precedent for international lunar sample research, promising a deeper understanding of our closest celestial neighbor.