The return capsule from China’s Chang’e 6 mission was successfully landed in Beijing and opened to reveal its contents, marking the successful end of the 53-day mission that brought the first samples from the far side of the moon to Earth. Special facilities were developed for the storage, analysis, and distribution of samples for research purposes.
During a ceremony held at the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) in Beijing, a sample container containing up to 4.4 pounds of lunar material was secured for further analysis and storage. NASA-funded researchers received permission late last year to apply for access to lunar samples collected by Chang’e 6. The materials will provide valuable insight into the composition of the far side of the Moon and contribute to ongoing research efforts.
After two years, international researchers may also have the opportunity to apply for access to the samples. Similar to the samples collected by Chang’e 5 from the closest side of the Moon in 2020, these materials will be available for research by Chinese scientists and institutions. The return capsule marked a significant milestone in China’s space exploration program and demonstrated its continued commitment to advancing scientific knowledge through space exploration.