Chang’e-6 Lunar Samples on Display at 15th Airshow China

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Zhuhai: China’s Chang’e-6 mission has made history with its lunar samples collected from the far side of the moon, now showcased for public viewing at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai.

According to the China National Space Administration (CNSA), the lunar soil on display, weighing approximately 75 mg, represents the first public welfare samples from Chang’e-6.

The soil was collected from the largest, deepest, and oldest impact crater on the moon’s far side, where the lunar crust is at its thinnest.

Zhang Tao, an official with CNSA, noted the exhibit is expected to draw significant public interest, allowing visitors to view these historic samples up close.

In addition to the lunar soil, the Chang’e-6 return capsule, the parachute that delivered the samples to Earth, and the sealed container used for lunar soil collection are also on display.

The Chang’e-6 mission brought back 1,935.3 grams of lunar samples in June, marking the first successful return from the far side of the moon in human history.

These samples hold unique scientific value, promising to further enhance the understanding of lunar evolution and potentially aid in the peaceful exploration and utilization of lunar resources.

The event, also known as Airshow China, will run from Nov. 12 to 17 in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, providing a global platform for showcasing cutting-edge aviation and aerospace technologies since its inception in 1996.