China Set to Launch Historic Lunar Mission to Collect Far Side Moon Samples
Scheduled for May 3, the Chang'e-6 mission aims to bring back the first samples from the Moon's far side, potentially providing new insights into lunar history and solar system evolution.
- China's Chang'e-6 mission, set for a May 3 launch, will attempt the first-ever sample return from the Moon's far side.
- The mission will explore the South Pole-Aitken Basin, the largest and oldest impact crater, to understand lunar dichotomies and early solar system impacts.
- Chang'e-6 includes an orbiter, lander, ascender, and re-entry module, and will use a newly launched relay satellite for communication.
- International collaboration features instruments from France, Sweden, Italy, and Pakistan, aiming to enhance lunar scientific research.
- The mission faces significant engineering challenges, including a rugged landing site and a narrow launch window due to lunar orbit requirements.
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