China successfully launched its Chang’e-6 lunar probe to the far side of the moon on a Long March-5 YB rocket from the Wenchang launch center in Hainan. The mission’s primary goal is to collect samples that could offer valuable insights into the differences between the less-explored far side and the more familiar near side of the moon.
One of the key reasons for exploring the far side is its significance for radio astronomy and other scientific endeavors. Since the far side does not directly face the Earth, a relay satellite is essential to maintain communication with the rover.
After orbiting the moon, the lander will detach from the spacecraft to collect samples before rejoining the spacecraft. It is scheduled to return to Earth after 53 days. China previously made history by landing a rover on the far side of the moon in 2019, becoming the first country to achieve this feat. Subsequently, samples were brought back from the near side in 2020, revealing the presence of water in small beads within the lunar soil.
Currently, China has a crew of three members aboard its orbiting space station Tiangong, which was launched in 2021. The country aims to send astronauts to the moon by 2030 and plans to launch three lunar probe missions in the next four years.
The Chang’e lunar exploration probe is named after the Chinese moon goddess. China initiated its first crewed space mission in 2003, establishing itself as the third country, after the former Soviet Union and the US, to achieve this milestone. As part of its commitment to scientific exploration, China continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and technological advancement.
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