The Chinese lunar probe Chang’e-6 has successfully returned to Earth with samples from the unexplored far side of the Moon. This mission, completed in Inner Mongolia, was risky and lasted nearly two months. Scientists are eager to study the 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, doing so in 2019. This side is challenging to reach due to its distance from Earth and difficult terrain.
The far side of the Moon is of interest to scientists because it may contain ice that can be used for water, oxygen, and hydrogen. Chang’e-6 is a matter of national pride for China, as they have been increasing their missions to the Moon and gaining attention from the United States. Chinese President Xi Jinping commended the mission and highlighted the importance of continuing exploration of deep space.
Chang’e-6 took off from the space center in May and landed successfully 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 the hopes of sending a manned mission to the Moon by 2030 and building a base at the Moon’s south pole. The US also has plans to return astronauts to the Moon by 2026 with the Artemis 3 mission. Analysts predict that the next space race will be centered around claiming and controlling lunar resources.