Chang’e-6 Mission Unveils New Insights into Moon's Volcanic Past

Chinese lunar samples reveal unexpected volcanic activity on the moon's far side, challenging previous understandings.

Chang’e-6 mission successfully retrieved 1.9 kilograms of lunar soil from the moon’s far side, marking a significant achievement for China's space program.
The samples revealed volcanic rock dating back 2.8 billion years, indicating relatively recent volcanic activity compared to the moon's near side.
Unlike Apollo-era samples, the Chang’e-6 samples lacked the radioactive elements typically associated with prolonged volcanic activity.
Findings suggest a longer molten period for the moon, raising questions about its volcanic history and internal heat sources.
International scientists, including U.S. researchers, are collaborating on the analysis despite legal restrictions on direct cooperation with China.