China’s Chang’e-6 probe takes off from the Moon with samples of its hidden side

Chinese probe Chang’e-6 successfully blasted off from the Moon with samples taken from the far side of the Earth’s satellite, an unprecedented feat in space exploration, the country’s state-run press reported on Tuesday.

This milestone represents a new step in the ambitious space program Chinawhich was already the first country to deploy a probe in this part Moon and plans to send manned flight to satellite in 2030.

“The take-off module of the Chinese Chang’e-6 probe launched from the surface of the Moon on Tuesday morning. transportation of samples collected on the far side of the Moon“, state news agency Xinhua reported, citing the China National Space Administration (CNSA).

“The mission passed the high temperature test on the far side of the Moon,” the Chinese space agency confirmed.

Analysis of the samples he collected will allow scientists to “deepening learning research and the historical evolution of the Moon,” mission spokesman Ge Ping said as quoted by Xinhua.

It will also provide information about ” origin of the solar system (…) with a better base for subsequent research missions,” he added.

The Chang’e 6 probe landed on the Moon on Sunday in a vast expanse. Aitken BasinAccording to CNSA, one of the largest known impact craters in the Solar System, located on the far side of the moon.

The ship, which began a challenging 53-day mission on May 3, had robotic arm for collecting material from the surface and drill take samples from its interior.

After collecting this material, “the Chinese national flag mounted on the lunar lander was displayed on the far side of the moon for the first time,” Xinhua reported.

CSNA did not specify how the mission will continue, but, according to specialized portals, the investigation will continue in lunar orbit for several weeks before beginning their return to Earth around June 25.

Scientists believe that this part of the Moon, never visible from Earth, contains great potential for research because its craters are not as covered with ancient lava flows as those on the side closest to the planet.

Since coming to power, Chinese President Xi Jinpingpromoted the “space dream” of the Asian giant.

Over the past decade, the country has devoted enormous resources to closing the gap with the two traditional powers in this sector. USA And Russia.

Along this path he achieved notable successes, such as the construction Tiangong Space Stationlanding of space robots Mars already the moon or sending manned flights into orbit.

The US claims that China’s aerospace program hides military targets and seeks to establish Asian dominance in space.

The latest Chang’e 6 mission is part of renewed interest in the Moon, where China wants to send astronauts in 2030 and plans build a space base. The United States also wants to return humans to the Moon in 2026 with its mission. Artemis 3.