China's Chang'e 6 mission is set to perform a historic lunar feat this weekend by landing on the far side of the Moon and returning with samples. According to Space.com, the Chang'e 6 spacecraft, which was launched on May 3, has meticulously planned its descent to the lunar far side, a region that is not easily accessible. With a similar mission profile to the successful Chang'e 5 mission, which returned lunar samples in December 2020, Chang'e 6 is available to expand our understanding of the moon's geology.
James Head of Brown University, a key collaborator with China's lunar exploration team, has shared insights into the mission. At a recent NASA meeting, Head detailed China's ongoing lunar efforts and future ambitions.
This weekend, Chang'e 6 is scheduled to land in the vast South Pole-Aitken Basin. After landing, the probe will spend three days analyzing its surroundings and collecting vital samples. These will be secured in an ascent module that will return to a lunar orbiter, setting the stage for its journey back to Earth. If the schedule holds, the sample-laden return capsule is expected to parachute back to Earth on June 25.
Once on Earth, the lunar treasures will be housed in a specialized laboratory in Beijing for thorough analysis and cataloging. The samples will be available for study by the global scientific community through applications managed by the China National Space Administration (CNSA).
Previously, the Chang'e 5 mission distributed small amounts of samples to various research institutions, providing valuable data. The current mission's target, the South Pole-Aitken Basin, could provide crucial information about the Moon's formative years and internal processes.
Wang Chi, Chief Scientist of China's Lunar Exploration Program, emphasized the mission's goal of recovering ancient lunar soil to expand our knowledge of the Moon's history. Essential tools such as a panoramic camera and lunar radar are aboard Chang'e 6 to aid in sample collection and geological assessment.
Lu Yuntong, an engineer with the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, emphasized the importance of the chosen landing site. The moderate latitude of the South Pole-Aitken Basin provides sufficient solar power and reliable communications, which are essential for the success of the mission.
As Chang'e 6 prepares for this groundbreaking journey, the world watches in anticipation of what new lunar secrets will be revealed.
