China’s Chang’e-6 lunar probe is poised for its scheduled May 3 launch, following a successful final systematic joint rehearsal on Wednesday. The rehearsal saw seamless collaboration between key departments, including the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Hainan Province, the Beijing Aerospace Control Center, the Xi’an Satellite Control Center, and the Yuanwang space-tracking ship.
This comprehensive rehearsal was crucial to ensure smooth coordination among the various organizations involved in the ambitious mission, which aims to collect lunar samples from the moon’s far side—a feat yet to be accomplished by any nation.
On Saturday morning, the Long March 5 carrier rocket, bearing the 8.2-metric-tonne Chang’e-6 probe atop, was transported to its launch tower at the Wenchang Space Launch Center. The movement of the rocket marks a significant milestone in the countdown to launch.
In preparation for the mission, the launch site conducted a series of rigorous tests, including technical assessments and fueling procedures. These steps are critical to ensure all systems function optimally during the mission.
Given Wenchang’s transition from the dry to the rainy season, the launch team organized a pre-launch meteorological consultation. The meteorological system initiated simulation exercises in advance and enhanced monitoring of weather data, particularly concerning thunderstorms and heavy precipitation in and around the launch site.
Specialists are also closely observing changes in the shallow wind field around essential structures to mitigate any potential risks posed by sudden weather shifts. Ensuring optimal weather conditions is vital for the safe and successful launch of the probe.
The Chang’e-6 mission represents a significant leap in China’s lunar exploration endeavors. Following the historic Chang’e-4 mission, which achieved the first soft landing on the moon’s far side in 2019, Chang’e-6 aims to bring back samples from this unexplored region, providing valuable insights into the moon’s geology and history.
As anticipation builds, global audiences, space enthusiasts, and researchers keenly await the launch, which signifies China’s continuous commitment to advancing space exploration. The mission not only underscores China’s growing prowess in space technology but also contributes to humanity’s broader quest for knowledge about our lunar neighbor.
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China's Chang'e-6 lunar probe ready for launch after final rehearsal
cgtn.com
