BEIJING, Dec. 28 — China’s space agency has announced the approval of the eighth batch of lunar sample research applications, allowing scientists access to moon samples collected by the Chang’e-5 and Chang’e-6 missions.
A total of 8,550.4 milligrams of lunar material will be distributed to 18 researchers from 16 research institutions
The Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center under CNSA.
The selected institutions include prestigious names such as the China University of Geosciences (Beijing), the University of Hong Kong, the Macau University of Science and Technology, Beihang University, and Wuhan University.
The Chang’e-6 mission made history by collecting 1,935.3 grams of lunar samples from the moon’s far side, a first in human space exploration. Additionally, the Chang’e-5 mission retrieved 1,731 grams of samples from the lunar surface.
“China remains committed to fostering international collaboration in lunar science and welcomes researchers from around the globe to apply for access in accordance with established procedures,” said Ge Ping, deputy director of the Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center.
Since the delivery of its first batch of lunar samples in July 2021, China has facilitated research using seven previous batches. These samples have supported studies in areas such as lunar surface processes, the chronology of volcanic activity, lunar evolution, and the analysis of mineral and volatile compositions.
The approval of this new batch reaffirms China’s dedication to advancing lunar research and encouraging global scientific engagement.
