Chang'e 6 mission returns with historical samples from the moon's far side

After completing its mission, the Chinese space probe Chang'e 6 returned to Earth last Tuesday, bringing the first samples of rocks and soil collected from the far side of the Moon. This information was reported by media in the People's Republic of China.

Researchers eagerly awaited the probe's return, hoping volcanic rocks formed about 2.5 billion years ago would be among the collected materials. This could provide them with valuable information about the Moon's geological history.

Scientists are also optimistic that by analysing the brought-back materials, they will learn more about the geological differences between the near and far sides of the Moon. Additionally, they hope that among the collected samples are rocks bearing traces of meteorite impacts.

China has conducted a series of successful missions to the Moon in the last few years. As part of these missions, using the Chang’e 5 probe, samples were taken from the side of the Moon visible from Earth. It is worth noting that American and Soviet lunar missions also focused on collecting samples exclusively from this side of Earth's natural satellite.

The Chang’e 6 mission began on 3 May. Its journey lasted 53 days, during which the probe travelled over 480,000 kilometres to reach the Moon, collect samples, and safely return to Earth.