In a historic milestone for lunar exploration, China’s Chang’e-6 lunar probe has unfurled a Chinese national flag made of basalt fibers on the far side of the moon. This remarkable achievement signifies China’s growing presence in space exploration and showcases innovative use of lunar materials.
The flag, woven from basalt fibers—a material derived from crushed and melted rocks—is highly durable and resistant to extreme temperatures and corrosion. Prof. Zhou Changyi from the National Space Science Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences explained, “We crushed and melted the rocks to pull them into thin threads with a diameter about one-third that of a hair.”
A Flag to Last Millennia
According to Prof. Zhou, the basalt-fiber flag could last over 10,000 years on the lunar surface. “The material is highly resistant to the harsh conditions on the moon,” he said. “As the moon has an abundance of basalt rock, this technology could be pivotal in building China’s future lunar research base.”
Inspiring a Nation
The unfurling of the national flag holds deep symbolic significance. “The national flag is meant to inspire patriotism among Chinese people around the world,” Prof. Zhou remarked. “Perhaps the whole nation is looking forward to this, proud of our country.”
Advancements in Space Exploration
This achievement marks the first time China has independently displayed its national flag on the moon’s far side. While it’s impossible for people on Earth to observe it directly due to the moon’s rotation, the accomplishment stands as a testament to China’s advancements in space technology.
The development of the basalt-fiber flag took researchers over a year, demonstrating the complexity and innovation involved in the mission. This follows the Chang’e-5 mission in 2020, during which China also unfurled its national flag, made of polymer fiber.
The Future of Lunar Exploration
As China continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, the Chang’e-6 mission represents a significant step toward future endeavors, including establishing a research base on the moon. The innovative use of lunar materials like basalt fibers could pave the way for sustainable construction and long-term missions.
For more insights into the Chang’e-6 mission and China’s space program, stay tuned to KhabarAsia.com for comprehensive coverage and analysis.
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Know your Chang'e-6: Chinese flag on moon's far side made of basalt
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