China’s Chang’e-6 mission is breaking new ground by collecting samples from the far side of the moon, a feat that requires precision and innovation due to the moon’s hidden terrain.
The mission, which recently saw its ascender enter lunar orbit on June 4, marks a significant milestone in lunar exploration. Unlike the Chang’e-5 mission in 2020 that gathered samples from the near side, Chang’e-6 faces the unique challenge of operating on the far side of the moon, completely invisible from Earth.
Replicating the Lunar Environment on Earth
To overcome this challenge, researchers like Jin Shengyi from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) have devised ingenious methods to simulate the lunar environment. They utilized data transmitted by the Queqiao-2 relay satellite to create a detailed geographic model of the sampling area.
“We first analyze the perceptual imaging data of the landing location obtained by Chang’e-6,” Jin explained. “From this, we build a digital model and then a physical replica that matches the lunar surface exactly.”
This 1:1 replica allows the team to place a sample-gathering mechanism identical to the one on the moon within the simulated environment. “In this reconstructed setting, we select sampling points, establish strategies, and verify them,” Jin said.
Precision Sampling with Intelligent Systems
The team selected over ten sampling points, optimizing the mission’s efficiency by programming the robotic arm to operate on all points in a single request. This was made possible through an intelligent sampling system that minimizes the need for back-and-forth communication, which is crucial given the vast distance of 380,000 kilometers.
In addition to surface sampling, the probe conducted drilling operations to collect subsurface lunar materials, a process that spanned three hours. These samples are expected to provide invaluable insights into the moon’s composition and geological history.
Advancing Lunar Exploration
China’s meticulous approach to replicating the lunar environment and planning the sampling process underscores its commitment to advancing space exploration. The success of Chang’e-6 not only enhances our understanding of the moon but also sets a precedent for future missions to distant celestial bodies.
As the mission progresses, scientists and enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate the wealth of knowledge that will emerge from these pioneering efforts.
Reference(s):
How do China's researchers work its lunar 'excavator' 380,000 km away?
cgtn.com
