Historic Lunar Samples Shed Light on Moon’s Mysterious Evolution
Chinese scientists have unveiled unprecedented insights into the moon’s far side through analysis of samples collected by the Chang'e-6 mission. Published in Nature, four studies reveal volcanic activity spanning 1.4 billion years, ancient magnetic field fluctuations, and stark differences in water content between the moon’s hemispheres—discoveries reshaping humanity’s understanding of lunar evolution.
Unlocking the South Pole-Aitken Basin’s Secrets
The 1,935.3-gram sample collection from the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) Basin—a 2,500-kilometer-wide impact crater—provides critical clues about the moon’s formation. Researchers confirmed volcanic eruptions occurred 4.2 billion and 2.8 billion years ago, while magnetic field data suggests a resurgence in lunar dynamo activity around 2.8 billion years ago. 'This impact basin holds keys to understanding the moon’s deep interior,' said CAS academician Wu Fuyuan.
Water Disparity and Solar System History
Notably, the far-side mantle contains significantly less water than the near side, challenging assumptions about lunar composition. Researchers also precisely dated the SPA Basin’s formation to 4.25 billion years ago, offering a new benchmark for studying early solar system collisions. 'These findings turn established theories upside down,' remarked UK Professor Mahesh Anand.
Global Implications for Lunar Science
Following China’s Chang'e-5 mission, which identified 2-billion-year-old volcanic activity on the near side, Chang'e-6’s discoveries highlight the moon’s complex geological history. 'This is a leap forward in planetary science,' said Li Chunlai, deputy chief designer of the Chang'e-6 mission. With global researchers invited to study the samples, the findings promise to deepen collaborations in space exploration.
